Method
- 01
Cook the bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve the rendered fat in the skillet (you'll need about 3 tablespoons).
- 02
Once the bacon is cool, crumble it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- 03
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Return the skillet with the bacon fat to the oven while it preheats so the fat is smoking hot when you add the batter—this creates the golden, crispy skillet crust that's the hallmark of cast iron cornbread.
- 04
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 05
In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, honey, and butter until well combined.
- 06
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix; lumps are okay. Fold in the crumbled bacon pieces gently.
- 07
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (the fat should be smoking). Pour the batter into the hot skillet; it should sizzle immediately as it hits the fat. Spread evenly.
- 08
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- 09
While the cornbread bakes, prepare the glaze by combining the brown sugar, butter, bourbon, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- 10
Remove the cornbread from the oven as soon as it's done. Using a pastry brush, immediately brush the entire top surface generously with the warm bourbon-brown sugar glaze. The heat of the bread will cause the glaze to glisten and partially set.
- 11
Let the cornbread rest in the skillet for 3-5 minutes to allow the glaze to set slightly.
- 12
Using a sharp knife, score the cornbread into 8 wedges while still in the skillet. Serve directly from the skillet, presenting wedges with the glossy glazed surface on top. The rustic presentation showcases the golden crust and glistening glaze beautifully.
