Frontier Celebrations

Pioneer Day is a wonderful celebration, especially in communities that honor the legacy of pioneers and settlers. Pioneer Day is an official holiday celebrated in Utah, and in regions of the surrounding states originally settled by Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. The Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from locations in the eastern United States.

On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart.

While the holiday has strong links to the LDS Church, it is officially a celebration for everyone, regardless of faith and nationality, who immigrated to the Salt Lake Valley during the pioneer era.

Pioneer Day Activities

Pioneer Day is a wonderful celebration. Parades, fireworks, rodeos, songs, dances, potlucks, pioneer-related activities, and other festivities help commemorate in remembrance of the LDS Church’s pioneer era.

If you are attending a Pioneer Day Celebration this Pioneer Day skillet cornbread recipe reflects the simple yet hearty meals that pioneers would have made on their journey across the frontier.

It’s perfect for celebrating Pioneer Day and sharing a taste of history with your friends and family! Enjoy! Come back to my blog for more great recipes like this!

Pioneer Day Skillet Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven to heat while you prepare the batter.
2. In a large bowl, add the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (remember to use oven mitts!). Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
8. Serve warm with butter and honey, or alongside a hearty stew or chili.