Irresistibly Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust – 7 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love This Classic

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By Gianna Poulef

Cornbread With Crisp Crust

There’s something deeply heartwarming about the aroma of Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust wafting through the kitchen. It’s the kind of scent that wraps around you like a soft blanket. For me, it brings back memories of family gatherings, cozy Sunday dinners, and that satisfying sizzle when batter hits a hot cast-iron skillet.

This cornbread is golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and crowned with that signature crisp crust we all fight over. It’s simple, timeless, and absolutely essential for your comfort-food table.

If you love classic, heart-centered recipes like this, be sure to subscribe to our email list — there’s always something warm coming out of this oven.

Overview of Recipe Content

Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust is a traditional American side dish baked in a hot cast-iron skillet to create those irresistibly crunchy edges.

It’s perfect for:

  • Sunday dinners
  • BBQ gatherings
  • Chili night
  • Thanksgiving sides
  • Cozy winter meals

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread

  • Crisp, buttery crust
  • Tender, fluffy interior
  • Lightly sweet balance
  • Simple pantry ingredients
  • Ready in under 30 minutes

The flavor is slightly sweet from the sugar, balanced by the earthy richness of cornmeal. The butter gives it depth, and baking in a hot skillet creates that signature golden edge that crackles when you slice into it.

If you’re building a comforting spread, pair this with https://poulef.com/easy-baked-oatmeal/ for brunch or serve alongside hearty favorites like https://poulef.com/chocolate-chip-banana-bread/ for a sweet-savory table.

And yes, it’s absolutely Pinterest-worthy — save it to your comfort food boards at https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Ingredients

This Now, Make It Later!
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 chopped jalapeño for heat

Tools You’ll Need

  • 10-inch cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

How to Make Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust

Let’s get that beautiful sizzle going.

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your cast-iron skillet inside the oven while it heats.

This is the secret to the crisp crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Cornmeal
  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk:

  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Melted butter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix — we want tender crumb.

Step 4: Create That Crisp Crust

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add a small pat of butter if desired and swirl to coat.

Pour batter into the hot skillet. You should hear a gentle sizzle — that’s your crust forming already.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool slightly before slicing.

The edges? Crisp and golden. The center? Soft and warm.

What to Serve with Golden Skillet Cornbread

This cornbread shines next to:

  • Hearty chili
  • BBQ ribs
  • Roast chicken
  • Collard greens
  • Honey butter

For a cozy brunch twist, serve it alongside https://poulef.com/protein-cookie-dough/ or https://poulef.com/3-ingredient-peanut-butter-cookies/ for a sweet finish.

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Always preheat the skillet.
  • Don’t overmix the batter.
  • Use buttermilk instead of milk for tangier flavor.
  • Add honey if you prefer sweeter cornbread.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

If you want ultra-crispy edges, brush extra butter around the skillet before pouring in the batter.

Storage Instructions

  • Room temperature: 2 days airtight.
  • Refrigerator: Up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.

Reheat slices in a skillet for restored crisp edges.

General Information

Cornbread has deep roots in Southern American cuisine. Traditionally baked in cast iron, it reflects resourcefulness and simplicity — cornmeal was affordable and widely available.

The hot skillet method creates that iconic crust, which many consider the best part. In my house, we always argue over the corner pieces.

It’s rustic. It’s nostalgic. It’s timeless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, but you won’t get the same crisp crust. Use a metal baking pan for best results.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce sugar to 2 tablespoons.

Can I use buttermilk?

Absolutely — it adds wonderful tang.

Why is my cornbread dry?

Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness.

Can I add cheese?

Yes! Cheddar makes a delicious savory version.

Conclusion

Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. Warm, comforting, simple, and deeply satisfying.

It’s more than a side dish — it’s a memory-maker.

Thank you for baking with me today. May your kitchen always smell this good.

Interactive Elements

If you bake this cornbread:

I can’t wait to hear!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice – 8 slices)

NutrientAmount
Calories240 kcal
Carbohydrates30g
Protein6g
Fat10g
Saturated Fat5g
Sugar7g
Fiber2g
Sodium280mg
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Irresistibly Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust – 7 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love This Classic


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  • Author: Gianna Poulef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust is tender inside and crispy on the edges. A comforting classic side dish baked in cast iron.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F with cast iron skillet inside.

2. Whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

5. Pour batter into hot buttered skillet.

6. Bake 18–22 minutes until golden.

7. Cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

Preheat skillet for crisp crust.

Do not overmix batter.

Store airtight up to 2 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
Irresistibly Golden Skillet Cornbread With Crisp Crust – 7 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love This Classic
Gianna Poulef
CEO, Chef & Recipe Creator at BLYNO LLC | Website

I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.

Let’s be friends!

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