Step 1: Preheat and PrepPreheat your oven to 400°F or 200°C. Place an 8-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan in the oven while it heats. A hot pan = crispy edges. In one large bowl, add milk and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This makes homemade buttermilk.
Step 2: Mix the BatterTo the same bowl with the milk, add the egg and melted butter. Whisk with a fork. Now add cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir with a spoon until just combined. A few lumps are okay. Don’t overmix or your cornbread will be tough.
Step 3: BakeCarefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Add a small piece of butter and swirl to coat. Pour the batter into the hot, buttered pan. It should sizzle. Bake for 20-22 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4: Serve WarmLet it cool for 5 minutes, then slice into wedges. Serve warm with extra butter and honey. The steam will make your kitchen smell like a Southern grandma’s house.How to Serve American CornbreadThe classic way: With a big bowl of chili or BBQ ribs. For breakfast: Drizzle with honey and butter. For Thanksgiving: Use it as a base for cornbread stuffing. Pro move: Crumble it into a glass of cold buttermilk.