Cozy Autumn Harvest Skillet Cornbread with Rosemary & Honey
Oh, friends, there's a certain magic in the air this time of year, isn't there? The leaves are turning, the evenings are getting crisper, and the aroma of cinnamon and woodsmoke seems to linger everywhere. My fondest memories of autumn always seem to revolve around food – specifically, the kind of hearty, warming dishes that fill your belly and your soul. As a child, I remember helping my grandmother shuck corn on her porch swing, the rhythmic swish-swish of the kernels hitting the metal bucket. The air would be thick with the sweet scent of corn, and anticipation for the cornbread to come was almost unbearable. Those moments, simple as they were, are forever etched in my mind as the epitome of autumn comfort. Today, I'm thrilled to share a twist on that classic: a Cozy Autumn Harvest Skillet Cornbread with Rosemary & Honey.
Why This Recipe Will Steal Your Heart
This isn't your average cornbread! This recipe is incredibly simple, requires minimal effort, and delivers a flavor explosion that perfectly captures the essence of the season. The earthy rosemary and sweet honey beautifully complement the savory cornmeal, creating a delightful balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, baking it in a cast iron skillet gives it a wonderfully crisp crust that's simply irresistible.
Gather Your Goodness: Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup melted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus extra for drizzling
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. For a sweeter cornbread, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar. Brown sugar will also add a slight molasses flavor.
Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 9-inch cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up while you prepare the batter. This is the secret to a crispy crust!
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure to break up any clumps of baking powder or soda for an even rise.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread.
Gently fold in the chopped rosemary and 2 tablespoons of honey.
Carefully remove the hot cast iron skillet from the oven and grease it generously with butter. The hot skillet will sizzle when the butter hits it – that’s exactly what you want!
Pour the batter into the hot skillet and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cornbread is golden brown.
Let the cornbread cool slightly in the skillet before slicing and serving. Drizzle with additional honey, if desired.
Serving Suggestions: From Our Homestead to Your Table
This Cozy Autumn Harvest Skillet Cornbread is incredibly versatile! Serve it warm as a side dish with a hearty chili or stew. It's also fantastic alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, using fresh herbs picked straight from the garden. For a truly decadent treat, try topping a slice with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also try adding cooked bacon bits or shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for an extra savory kick! For an extra special treat, serve the cornbread with a side of homemade apple butter.
A Homesteading Farewell
I truly hope you enjoy this Cozy Autumn Harvest Skillet Cornbread as much as my family does. It's a simple recipe that brings so much warmth and comfort to our table, and I can't wait for it to do the same for yours. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize it to your own taste. After all, cooking from scratch is all about embracing the season and creating something truly special with the ingredients you have on hand. And if you bake this up, please tag Better Homes and Harvests in your photos on social media – we'd love to see your creations! What are your favorite ways to use up your autumn harvest? Share your ideas in the comments below!
