Capsaicin Free Skillet Cornbread

Total time40 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time25 min

4.9

(24)

Few things hit the comfort food sweet spot quite like a golden, crackling-edged cornbread pulled straight from a cast-iron skillet. The technique here is the real magic — preheating the skillet until it's screaming hot means the batter sizzles the moment it hits the pan, giving you that irresistible crispy bottom crust that a baking dish simply can't deliver. Stone-ground yellow cornmeal brings a slightly coarse, nutty texture, while buttermilk and a touch of honey keep the crumb tender and just barely sweet. For anyone avoiding capsaicin, this recipe is a natural fit — there are no chiles, no hot sauce, no paprika, and no spice blends hiding heat anywhere in the ingredient list. Black pepper is the only seasoning beyond salt, so the flavor stays warm and savory without any burn. Finished with a pat of butter melting into the warm wedges and an optional drizzle of honey, this is the kind of side dish that disappears before the main course even makes it to the table.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

8 servings

2 tbsp bacon fat butter or unsalted butter
1 ½ cups stone-ground yellow cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups buttermilk, well shaken
2 large eggs
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 tbsp honey

For serving

2 tbsp unsalted butter, for serving (optional)
1 tbsp honey, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1
Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet on the center rack of the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). Let the skillet heat for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the batter.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!