- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stick of butter in a 9-inch round cake pan or a cast iron skillet and put it in the oven to melt. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter (reserve the pan with the butter coating for later use) and sugar. Add the eggs and beat until well combined. Stir in the buttermilk and baking soda, mixing thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the cornmeal, flour, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined. The batter should be smooth and pourable.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the butter-coated pan or skillet, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm, with a dab of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite meal.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a 1-cup measure, then filling the rest with milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Cast Iron Skillet: Baking cornbread in a cast iron skillet not only adds to the rustic charm but also helps achieve a beautifully crisp crust. Just be sure to preheat the skillet as the oven warms.
- Storing: Leftover cornbread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
This cornbread, rich with the flavors of tradition and the simplicity of good, honest ingredients, serves as a reminder of the timeless beauty found in grandmother’s recipes. Each slice, whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger feast, carries the legacy of generations and the comfort of home.