Grandma’s Classic Iron Skillet Cornbread Recipe

Introduction

Few things smell as comforting as cornbread baking in an iron skillet. Grandma’s recipe isn’t fancy, but it has soul. Crispy edges, golden-brown crust, tender crumb, and just the right amount of butter—this is southern comfort in a pan. There’s something magical about cooking in an iron skillet; it gives the bread a rustic flavor and texture you can’t get from a muffin tin.

This cornbread is versatile. Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of chili, a comforting pot of soup, or with butter and honey for a simple snack. It’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations, the one that makes your kitchen smell like home, and the one everyone asks for at gatherings. Grandma’s Iron Skillet Cornbread isn’t about perfection—it’s about love, tradition, and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Golden, crispy crust – Iron skillet ensures perfect browning
• Tender and moist – Soft crumb that melts in your mouth
• Simple ingredients – No fancy techniques or hard-to-find items
• Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour
• Perfect with anything – Chili, soup, or just butter
• Family favorite – A recipe that never fails to impress

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for skillet)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for skillet)

Instructions/Method

1. Preheat oven and skillet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 9-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat for 10 minutes.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Mix batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Prepare skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom and sides.
6. Pour batter: Pour the batter into the hot skillet, spreading evenly.
7. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm with butter or honey.

Tips & Variations

• Add corn kernels: Stir in 1/2 cup fresh or canned corn for extra texture.
• Cheesy twist: Fold in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar.
• Spicy kick: Add 1–2 chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Sweet cornbread: Increase sugar to 1/3 cup.
• Crispier edges: Let the cornbread sit in the skillet for a few minutes after baking.

Note

Always preheat the skillet—it’s key to the crispy crust. Avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread tender.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside chili, soups, or stews.
• Spread with butter, honey, or jam.
• Great for breakfast with scrambled eggs.
• Perfect for holiday dinners or potlucks.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1/8 of pan):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Sugar: 5g

User Reviews/Comments

Sarah L. – “This cornbread is exactly like my grandma used to make. Crispy edges, soft center—perfect!”

Tom R. – “I added some cheddar and it was amazing. Skillet makes all the difference.”

Maya K. – “Simple, quick, and delicious. My whole family loved it.”

FAQs

Can I make this without an iron skillet?
Yes, use a greased 9-inch round or square baking pan. The crust won’t be as crispy.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I freeze cornbread?
Yes. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I make it sweeter or spicier?
Yes. Adjust sugar to taste or add jalapeños, corn, or shredded cheese for variations.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Iron Skillet Cornbread is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for pairing with almost any dish. It’s a family favorite that brings warmth to the table and a smile to everyone who takes a bite.

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