Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter

Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter is a classic Southern comfort food that combines a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, tender, and slightly sweet interior. Baked in a cast-iron skillet, this cornbread develops a beautiful crust while remaining moist inside. Topped with sweet, creamy honey butter, it’s the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, chili, barbecues, or a hearty breakfast.

What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The skillet ensures a slightly crunchy edge while the honey butter melts into the bread for an irresistible sweetness. This cornbread is quick, foolproof, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, comforting, and indulgent. The cornbread itself is lightly sweet and tender, while the honey butter adds richness and a touch of elegance. Baking it in a skillet gives it a rustic, homemade charm, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s classic, versatile, and universally loved. The skillet method elevates regular cornbread into something extra special, and the honey butter takes it to the next level. Perfect for pairing with soups, chilis, barbecues, or enjoying on its own, this cornbread will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories: ~250 calories per serving (with honey butter)
• Course: Side Dish / Breakfast
• Cuisine: Southern / American

Ingredients

For the Cornbread:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Honey Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2–3 tablespoons honey
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 9-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven while it preheats.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
6. Pour the batter into the skillet and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. While the cornbread is baking, prepare the honey butter by mixing softened butter, honey, and salt until smooth.
9. Remove the cornbread from the oven, let it cool slightly, then serve warm with honey butter.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a cast-iron skillet inside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
Step 4: Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and grease lightly.
Step 6: Pour batter into the skillet and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare honey butter by mixing softened butter, honey, and a pinch of salt until creamy.
Step 9: Remove cornbread from skillet, slice, and serve warm with honey butter.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a side for chili, soups, or stews.
• Spread with honey butter or jam for breakfast.
• Pair with barbecued meats or roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender cornbread.
• Preheating the skillet gives a crisp, golden crust.
• Use fresh, high-quality butter for the best honey butter flavor.
• Slice cornbread while warm for easier serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar and 1–2 diced jalapeños to the batter.
• Maple Butter: Substitute honey with maple syrup in the butter for a different flavor.
• Herbed Cornbread: Add 1–2 teaspoons fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist.
• Bacon Cornbread: Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for extra richness.
• Mini Skillet Cornbread: Bake in small cast-iron skillets for individual servings.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch cast-iron skillet (or oven-safe skillet)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Oven mitts
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter is a warm, comforting, and versatile dish that elevates any meal. The buttery, tender cornbread paired with sweet honey butter is a classic combination that never fails to impress. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and endlessly adaptable, this cornbread recipe is a must-try for family dinners, holiday feasts, or cozy weeknight meals.