Image courtesy of Kelley Harris (@its_me_kellz) via Black Foodie Finder
Granny’s Bread: A Soulful Skillet Classic That Tastes Like Home
Some recipes aren’t just about flavor—they’re about family, memories, and tradition. Granny’s Bread is one of those recipes. This soulful, skillet-baked bread is a classic in Black households across the South, lovingly passed down through generations. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have warm, buttery bread that’ll have everyone at the table reaching for seconds (and thirds).
This isn’t a bread made for perfection—it’s made for comfort. Whether you called it hoe cake, skillet bread, or “granny’s bread,” this recipe comes from a place of love. With rich butter, simple flour, and the magic of a cast iron skillet, this bread rises beautifully and delivers that nostalgic “taste of home” in every bite.
Ingredients List (What You Need)
Option 1: Using Self-Rising Flour
- 2 cups self-rising flour (White Lily preferred)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and grated (plus more for spreading)
Option 2: Using All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and grated (plus more for spreading)
Other Essentials
- ¾ to 1 cup whole milk
- Medium cast iron pan, buttered
- Extra melted butter for brushing on top
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F. This is the perfect temperature to get a golden brown crust and soft center.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. If using all-purpose flour, make sure to include the baking powder for that crucial lift.
3. Grate and Cut in the Butter
Grate the cold unsalted butter directly into the flour mix. Then, using your hands or a pastry cutter, blend the butter until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
4. Add Milk and Mix Dough
Pour in the milk gradually, stirring just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread soft and tender.
5. Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your hands and the dough. Shape the dough into a ball, then gently press it into a smooth round shape. Don’t stress about perfection—this bread is rustic.
6. Prepare Your Skillet
Butter your medium cast iron skillet generously. Then place your dough ball in the center and press it out evenly to cover the bottom of the skillet.
7. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. The top should be lightly golden and the sides should pull away from the skillet.
8. Troubleshooting Tip
If the bread doesn’t brown on top, your oven might not be calibrated. Just place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until golden.
9. Butter Like Granny Did
Once out of the oven, immediately brush the top with a generous amount of melted butter. This is the part where your kitchen starts to smell like grandma’s house.
10. Slice, Serve, and Savor
Serve warm, slathered with more butter or your favorite jam (blackberry is a classic!). Every bite is a throwback to Sunday dinners and sweet memories.
Slice of nostalgia — soft, fluffy inside with a buttery golden crust
About the Chef/Creator
This delicious recipe is by Kelley Harris, a proud home cook from Covington who channels her granny’s spirit in every dish. Her vibrant personality and commitment to cooking “the old-school way” has made her a fan-favorite on social media. Follow her for more nostalgic eats on TikTok and Instagram: @its_me_kellz
Watch The Video
? Watch the original Granny’s Bread recipe video here
Featured by Black Foodie Finder