Pioneer Skillet Bread
Pioneer Skillet Bread offers a hearty, golden crust with a tender interior, perfect for rustic gatherings or cozy family meals. Its simple ingredients and versatile preparation make it an ideal accompaniment for soups, stews, or enjoyed on its own with butter, evoking traditional American baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Prepare a fire so you will have hot coals on the hearth.
- Put dry ingredients unsifted in a bowl.
- Mix in buttermilk and egg.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and mix thoroughly.
- Put remaining oil in a 9-inch cast-iron skillet.
- Heat skillet in oven or over coals for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Pour batter into the hot skillet.
- Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the bread is brown.
- Cut into wedges and serve with butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk made from whole milk instead of low-fat. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure your cast-iron skillet is well-seasoned to prevent sticking. If you prefer a slightly sweeter bread, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pioneer Skillet Bread warm, cut into wedges, with a generous pat of butter on top. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like Hobo Potatoes or can be enjoyed with honey or jam for a sweet treat. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty soup or chili for a satisfying comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover skillet bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or skillet until warm and crispy, or wrap in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pioneer Skillet Bread contains roughly 17 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour instead of cornmeal?
Yes, you can substitute cornmeal with an equal amount of all-purpose flour for a different texture, but the flavor will change. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend, keeping in mind that this may alter the bread's consistency.
What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
You can mix in ingredients like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or cooked bacon for added flavor. A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the taste. Experiment with your favorite additions to create a personalized version of this bread.
How can I tell when the skillet bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should also start to pull away from the skillet. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).