Skillet Cornbread

The moment you take a bite of Skillet Cornbread, you’ll be transported to a cozy kitchen, filled with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread. This isn’t just any cornbread; it’s a unique blend of sweet and smoky flavors, thanks to the chipotle honey butter that gives it a delightful kick. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly fall evening, and the air was crisp. I had friends over for a casual dinner, and I wanted something that would not only pair well with our hearty chili but also stand out on its own. As I mixed the ingredients, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the deliciousness that was about to unfold.

After pulling the golden-brown cornbread from the oven, the crackling surface and buttery scent were enough to entice anyone into the kitchen. That evening, we gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while slathering the warm cornbread with chipotle honey butter. It was a hit! The blend of flavors was so comforting that I knew I had to share the recipe. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night at home, Skillet Cornbread is sure to make any occasion special. It’s a dish that brings people together, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

What Goes Into Skillet Cornbread

When it comes to making Skillet Cornbread, the ingredients are straightforward yet create a rich tapestry of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in crafting that perfect slice of cornbread. The key players here are the all-purpose flour and finely ground cornmeal, which provide the base and structure.

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: This flour gives the cornbread its structure while still keeping it fluffy.
• 1 ½ cups finely ground cornmeal: The star of the show, adding a delightful corn flavor and texture.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is crucial for helping the cornbread rise and achieve that perfect fluffiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• ⅔ cup sugar: Adds sweetness to the bread, complementing the corn flavor beautifully.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature: This enriches the cornbread, making it moist and flavorful.
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten: They bind everything together and contribute to the overall texture.
• 1 cup sweet corn, fresh or frozen: Adds pops of sweetness and texture to the cornbread.
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: This adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Used in the honey butter, it adds richness and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the butter and pairs well with the spice.
• ½ to 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, diced and some seeds discarded: Adds a smoky heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements.
• 2 teaspoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotles: Further enhances the smoky flavor.
• pinch of cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth to the cornbread.
• pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness of the honey and corn.

Making This Skillet Cornbread

Creating Skillet Cornbread is a delightful process that begins with preheating your oven. Once you gather your ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. To start, place a cast iron skillet in the oven while you prep the batter. This ensures your skillet is nice and hot, which is essential for achieving that beautiful crust on the cornbread.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent and flavor.

3. In a separate small bowl, stir together the softened butter and sugar with a wooden spoon. You want this mixture to resemble wet sand—most of the sugar will be absorbed by the butter, making it creamy.

4. Next, add the eggs, sweet corn, and Greek yogurt to the butter mixture. Whisk until combined. It doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth; just ensure everything is mixed well.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix. You want a few lumps to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.

6. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Pour the batter into the center of the skillet. It will naturally spread out, but you can use a spatula to help it along slightly. Don’t go overboard!

7. Bake the cornbread in the preheated oven until it’s golden brown and set in the center, about 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s done.

8. Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with the chipotle honey butter you made earlier. Just stir together all the ingredients until well combined—this delicious topping can be stored in the fridge for up to a week!

Things Worth Knowing

Tips and Tricks about Skillet Cornbread

Mastering Skillet Cornbread is all about getting the little details right. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

• Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days. After that, refrigerate them to extend freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Pairing: Serve this cornbread with hearty soups or spicy chili to balance the flavors.
• Variations: Add ingredients like cheese or jalapeños for extra flavor or texture.
• Serving Suggestions: It’s perfect for a warm side at any family gathering or holiday feast.
• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the honey and chipotle.

Serving This Skillet Cornbread

When it comes to serving Skillet Cornbread, there are many fantastic options to consider. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Hearty Meals: This cornbread is the perfect side for chili, stews, or soups. It absorbs flavors beautifully and enhances the overall meal.
• Casual Gatherings: Serve it at potlucks or barbecues, where everyone can enjoy its comforting flavors.
• Seasonal Occasions: It’s especially delightful in fall when served with seasonal soups or roasted vegetables.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They’re great for breakfast or snacks!
• Fresh Pairings: Try it with fresh salads or grilled dishes for a contrast in temperature and texture.
• Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for a gourmet twist on your servings.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes Skillet Cornbread so special is its perfect blend of sweetness and smoky flavor, enhanced by chipotle honey butter. This recipe not only delivers deliciousness but also brings warmth and togetherness to any meal. I encourage you to try this delightful dish and share it with your loved ones. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, creating memories around the table for years to come.

Skillet Cornbread

The ultimate comfort food, Skillet Cornbread is a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors, enhanced with chipotle honey butter. Perfect for any occasion, it's a simple yet delicious dish that will impress everyone at your table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups finely ground cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cups sugar
• ¾ cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cups sweet corn, fresh or frozen
• ⅓ cup plain greek yogurt or sour cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ to 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, diced and some seeds discarded
• 2 teaspoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotles
• pinch cinnamon
• pinch salt

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place a cast iron skillet in the oven while you prep the batter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter and sugar with a wooden spoon until combined, so it’s almost like the texture of sand.
4. Add the eggs, corn, and yogurt to the butter mixture. Whisk until combined. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until they are just incorporated. Don’t overmix!
5. Remove the skillet from the oven and pour the batter into the center. It will mostly stay in the center, and you can use a spatula to slightly smooth it out and spread it to the sides, but don’t overdo it.
6. Bake the cornbread until golden and set in the center, about 35 to 45 minutes.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with the chipotle honey butter!
8. Stir together all ingredients until combined. This stays great in the fridge for a week.

Notes

• Tip 1: Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Tip 2: Hot Skillet: Using a hot cast iron skillet creates a beautiful crust on the cornbread, giving it that authentic cornbread vibe.
• Tip 3: Adjust Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less chipotle or remove the seeds from the pepper.
• Tip 4: Sweetness Balance: If you find cornbread too sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the batter slightly without affecting the texture too much.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.