Looking for a taste of Southern comfort? Dive into Ineskohl Kitchen’s step-by-step recipe for homemade buttermilk cornbread with honey butter. Prepared in an 8-inch cast-iron skillet, this delicious and moist cornbread will become a family favorite. Whether you like it sweet or traditional, this cornbread has a special touch that leaves you craving more.
Today, we’re diving into a classic Southern delight – homemade buttermilk cornbread served with a scrumptious honey butter. It’s all prepared in an 8-inch cast-iron skillet for that authentic touch. Ready to savor the taste of the South? Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
Cornbread
- 1.5 cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3.5 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup whole buttermilk (Use 2 cups if not using sugar)
- 2 tbsp butter (real butter)
- 1 tbsp Duke’s Mayonnaise (or a good alternative like Hellmann’s)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup sugar (Optional)
Honey Butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp heavy whipping cream
- 1 stick of salted butter
Instructions:
Preparing the Skillet
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In your 8-inch cast-iron skillet, combine 2 tbsp of real butter with 2 tbsp of vegetable oil.
- Melt in the preheated oven for 2 to 3 minutes and then set aside for later use.
Making the Cornbread
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- If you like a hint of sweetness, add the optional 1/4 cup of sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat together 2 large eggs and 2/3 cup of whole buttermilk.
- Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry, whisking until smooth.
- Add a tablespoon of Duke’s Mayonnaise to keep the cornbread moist.
- Pour in the previously melted butter and oil, and mix well.
- Transfer the batter to the cast-iron skillet, ensuring that some butter and oil is left in the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Making the Honey Butter
- Combine the salted butter stick, honey, and a teaspoon of heavy whipping cream in a bowl.
- Mix until smooth, tasting to make sure the sweetness is just right. Set aside.
Final Touches
- Once the cornbread is cooked through, spread some honey butter on top.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to brown the top – watch it closely!
- Serve the cornbread warm with extra honey butter and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Choice of Mayonnaise: Though Duke’s Mayonnaise is recommended, another high-quality mayonnaise like Hellmann’s can work well. Avoid using low-quality mayonnaise as it might alter the taste and texture.
- Sweetness Level: If you prefer sweet cornbread, add sugar to the batter. If not, the honey butter on top provides a hint of sweetness that complements the savory cornbread.
- Skillet Preparation: The butter and oil combination in the bottom of the skillet ensures the cornbread doesn’t stick. Don’t skip this step!
- Watch the Broiling: Be very attentive when broiling the top of the cornbread. It can go from golden brown to burnt in a matter of seconds.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Chili: This cornbread pairs wonderfully with a homemade chili recipe. Serve it on the side or crumble it on top for a hearty meal.
- Breakfast Option: Serve this cornbread as a special breakfast treat with eggs and bacon.
- As a Side: This cornbread makes a fabulous side dish with various Southern meals like fried chicken, collard greens, and BBQ ribs.
Storing and Reheating:
- Storing: Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or give it a quick warm-up in the microwave.
Conclusion:
This Southern Buttermilk Cornbread with Honey Butter recipe encapsulates everything we love about comfort food. The taste of tradition in every bite, the blend of sweetness and savory, and the comforting warmth of home-cooked goodness.
I hope you enjoy making and devouring this delightful dish. Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your variations and pairings!
