Classic Southern Buttermilk Cornbread

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Put 2 tablespoons of the butter in a cast-iron skillet and place it in the oven for 5 minutes while you mix the batter.
2. Whisk the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the buttermilk, honey (if using), and eggs.
4. Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter. Make a well in the dry ingredients, pour in the buttermilk mixture, and stir with a spatula until no dry cornmeal remains. Stir in the melted butter.
5. Carefully remove the hot skillet, pour in the batter, and smooth it level (it should sizzle). Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool 10 minutes, slice, and serve warm.