Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepping Your Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- While the oven preheats, place your 9x13 inch baking pan, or a cast iron skillet, with about one tablespoon of butter or oil inside the oven. Allow it to heat until the fat is shimmering and hot.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined for an even rise and consistent flavor.
Combining Wet Ingredients
- In a separate medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, vegetable oil, milk, and large eggs. Whisk them until they are fully incorporated and smooth.
Bringing the Batter Together
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Baking Your Cornbread
- Carefully remove the hot, shimmering pan from the oven. Immediately and carefully pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking pan. You will hear a satisfying sizzle.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before cutting it into squares. This cooling time allows the structure to set and prevents crumbling.
- Serve warm with extra butter and a drizzle of honey if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
The secret to this cornbread's incredible crispy crust is preheating the baking pan, preferably a cast iron skillet, with a tablespoon of butter or oil until shimmering hot before adding the batter. This ensures an instant Maillard reaction and prevents a soggy bottom. Serve warm with extra butter and a drizzle of honey if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, cornbread freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.