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Crispy Cast Iron Cornbread Recipe with Perfect Golden Edges

crispy cast iron cornbread - featured image

This crispy cast iron cornbread features perfect golden edges and a tender crumb, delivering nostalgic comfort with every bite. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (can swap for almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust up or down to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for skillet greasing)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 10-inch cast iron skillet inside to heat for about 10 minutes until smoking hot.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy, then slowly stir in the buttermilk and melted butter (ensure butter is not too hot).
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Fold in corn kernels if using.
  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts, add a tablespoon of butter, and swirl to coat the bottom and sides.
  6. Immediately pour the batter into the hot skillet and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if edges brown too quickly.
  8. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Preheat the cast iron skillet thoroughly to achieve crispy edges. Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense crumb. Butter the skillet right before pouring batter for best crust. If edges brown too fast, tent with foil. Let cornbread rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread, cast iron skillet, crispy cornbread, easy cornbread recipe, golden edges, comfort food, gluten-free option, dairy-free option