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The Ultimate Moist Honey Sourdough Discard Cornbread (Skillet Baked)

A close-up of a moist slice of golden sourdough cornbread being lifted from the rest of the loaf in a black cast iron skillet.

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Bake this incredibly easy sourdough discard cornbread in a cast iron skillet. It achieves a perfect balance of sweet honey flavor and sourdough tang, resulting in a moist, fluffy side dish ideal for chili or BBQ.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup sourdough discard (active or unfed)
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the skillet

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, milk, honey, and melted butter until combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are acceptable.
  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the bottom and sides completely. The butter should melt immediately.
  6. Pour the cornbread batter into the hot, buttered skillet. Spread it evenly.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Brush the top with extra melted butter if desired.

Notes

  • Baking in a preheated, buttered cast iron skillet creates the best crispy, golden edges for your cornbread.
  • If you do not have sourdough discard, you can substitute 1/2 cup of active sourdough starter mixed with 1/2 cup of plain yogurt or buttermilk.
  • This cornbread pairs well with chili, soups, or smoked meats.

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