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Classic Southern Fried Cornbread (Skillet Recipe)

A stack of golden brown, perfectly pan-fried cornbread patties piled on a white plate.
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Make Southern fried cornbread with a crispy outside and soft inside using this simple skillet recipe. This golden brown cornbread is a classic comfort food side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or bacon grease, plus more for frying

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar if you are using it.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and 1/4 cup milk.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined; do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
  4. Add the 1/4 cup of oil or bacon grease to the batter and stir briefly.
  5. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil or bacon grease in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot (about 350°F). The fat should shimmer slightly.
  6. Carefully drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls into the hot fat to form patties (Hoecakes). Do not crowd the skillet.
  7. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the cornbread is deep golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  8. Use a spatula to flip the patties and cook the second side until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Remove the fried cornbread from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
  10. Serve immediately with butter and honey for a perfect comfort food treat.

Notes

  • For the best crispy texture, use bacon grease instead of vegetable oil for frying.
  • If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
  • This recipe works well for making old-fashioned cornbread patties.
  • Serve this pan-fried corn cake alongside chili, beans, or greens.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/fried-cornbread-recipe-southern-skillet/