Emulsifier Free Skillet Cornbread
Few things hit harder than a golden wedge of cornbread pulled straight from a cast-iron skillet, and this version delivers that crackling edge and tender crumb that makes the whole kitchen smell incredible. Every ingredient here is exactly what it sounds like — stone-ground cornmeal, buttermilk, eggs, real butter, and a touch of honey — with zero hidden additives or synthetic emulsifiers that sneak into so many packaged mixes and store-bought loaves. The technique does the heavy lifting: a screaming-hot skillet coated in bacon fat or butter creates that signature sizzle the moment the batter hits the pan, giving you a deeply caramelized crust without any chemical shortcuts. Buttermilk and eggs work together naturally to bind and lift the batter, so there's no need for anything beyond straightforward pantry staples. A light drizzle of honey going into the batter keeps the crumb just barely sweet, and another drizzle at the table takes it completely over the top. It's the kind of recipe that proves simple, clean ingredients — when treated right — produce results that no additive-laden shortcut can touch.
About FigFig 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!