There is something so comforting about a warm slice of cornbread fresh from a skillet, especially when it has that golden crust and a sweet, buttery finish. This honey butter skillet cornbread brings together simple pantry ingredients and a cozy Southern-inspired flavor that works for breakfast, dinner, or any time you want a little comfort on the table.
Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread
Equipment
- 1 Cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan
- 2 Mixing Bowls
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 0.25 cup honey
- 1 tbsp butter for the skillet
Instructions
- Start by heating your oven to 425°F. Place a cast iron skillet in the oven with a little butter so it gets hot and ready for the batter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, since that can make the cornbread dense.
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven, swirl the butter around the pan, then pour in the batter. Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. For extra flavor, brush the top with a little more melted butter and a drizzle of honey.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread
This cornbread is soft in the middle, lightly crisp around the edges, and finished with a lovely touch of honey butter. It comes together quickly, uses familiar ingredients, and bakes beautifully in a skillet for that classic homemade look and texture.
You will also love how versatile it is. Serve it with chili, soup, beans, roasted vegetables, or simply with more butter and honey on top.
Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon butter, for the skillet
If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also use a little more honey if you prefer a sweeter bread, or reduce the sugar for a more savory version.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread
1. Preheat the oven
Start by heating your oven to 425°F. Place a cast iron skillet in the oven with a little butter so it gets hot and ready for the batter.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is evenly combined.
3. Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until smooth and well blended.
4. Make the batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, since that can make the cornbread dense.
5. Bake in the skillet
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven, swirl the butter around the pan, then pour in the batter. Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Finish and serve
Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. For extra flavor, brush the top with a little more melted butter and a drizzle of honey.
Tips for Success
Warm the skillet before adding the batter if you want those crisp, golden edges. Measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off, since too much flour can dry out the bread.
Also, keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven runs a little differently, so start checking near the end to make sure the center stays moist and tender.
Variations of Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread
For a little extra richness, fold in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. If you enjoy a gentle kick, add a pinch of cayenne or finely chopped jalapeño.
You can also make it more rustic by using a little extra cornmeal and less flour, or turn it into a breakfast side by serving it with jam instead of honey butter.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread
This cornbread is wonderful alongside chili, baked beans, collard greens, chicken soup, or roasted chicken. It also pairs nicely with breakfast eggs, fresh fruit, or a simple spread of softened butter.
For a cozy family meal, serve it warm in the skillet and let everyone break off a slice at the table.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices well and freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for a short time, or warm them in the oven until they are soft and heated through. A little butter brushed on top helps bring back that fresh-baked feel.
Memories Made Around the Table
Recipes like this one have a special way of bringing people together. A skillet of warm cornbread often disappears fast, especially when it lands in the center of a busy table with soup simmering nearby and everyone reaching for one more piece.
FAQs
Can I make this cornbread without a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use a baking dish or oven-safe pan instead. The skillet gives the best crust, but the flavor will still be lovely.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day ahead and rewarm it before serving. It is still delicious the next day, especially with extra butter.
How do I keep cornbread from drying out?
Do not overbake it, and be careful not to add too much flour. Using enough butter and buttermilk also helps keep the texture soft.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Absolutely. Reduce the sugar or honey to suit your taste, and it will lean more savory while still staying moist and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This honey butter skillet cornbread is one of those simple recipes that feels special every time you make it. With its tender crumb, golden edges, and sweet buttery finish, it is the kind of bread that turns an ordinary meal into something memorable.