Ingredients
Method
- Set a 10-inch cast iron skillet on the center rack and heat the oven to 400°F, giving the skillet at least 15 minutes to heat through. Make the batter while it heats.
- In a bowl, stir together all of the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar and sea salt.
- In a second bowl, stir the egg into the milk and melted butter only until it is broken up and blended into the liquid. Avoid beating it.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently, stopping as soon as the batter is blended. Do not overmix.
- Using oven mitts, carefully take the hot skillet out of the oven. Coat its bottom and sides with the oil or melted butter, using a heatproof brush or a folded paper towel held with tongs.
- Pour the batter into the skillet, return it to the oven, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden, the edges are browned, and a cake tester or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (200 to 205°F on an instant-read thermometer).
- Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 15 to 20 minutes, then cut it into 8 wedges or turn it out onto a board.
Notes
Equipment: a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
The box recipe this is based on calls for oil and an 8x8 baking dish; this version uses melted butter, less sugar and a skillet. To bake it in a greased 8-inch square pan instead, skip preheating the pan and bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
Storage: cornbread is best warm on the day it is baked. Wrap leftovers and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Inspired by the recipe on the back of the Albers Cornmeal box.
