Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake or boil sweet potato until tender, then mash thoroughly until smooth. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar sized cast iron skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together fine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, fine kosher salt, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until evenly distributed and there are no lumps.
- In a separate bowl, combine vegetable oil, melted unsalted butter, and large eggs, whisking until well incorporated. Add mashed sweet potato, sour cream, and buttermilk, stirring until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring just until combined; do not overmix. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top gently.
- About 10 minutes before your cornbread is done baking, prepare the honey-butter glaze. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, honey, and a pinch of fine kosher salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes fragrant. Keep warm.
- Take the cornbread out of the oven once it is golden brown and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (typically 25-30 minutes). While still piping hot, generously pour the warm honey-butter glaze evenly over the entire surface. Allow the cornbread to sit for at least 10-15 minutes, letting the glaze fully absorb and set slightly.
- Once the glaze has soaked in and the cornbread has cooled enough to handle, slice it into generous squares or wedges. Serve warm on its own, or as an accompaniment to chili, roasted meats, or a brunch spread.
Notes
To achieve perfect cornbread: do not overmix the batter (a few lumps are fine for a tender crumb); ensure sweet potato is mashed completely smooth; generously grease your pan for easy release; for an extra crispy edge, preheat a cast iron skillet with a little butter or oil before adding batter; allow cornbread to cool slightly after glazing for full absorption and deeper flavors.
