Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven to heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
Add the eggs and mix well. Stir in the sourdough discard until fully incorporated. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
Add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
Mix in the milk, then add the remaining flour mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely.
Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading evenly.
Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter and honey, if desired.
Notes
🥡 STORAGE: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.♨️ REHEATING: Air fryer: 300°F for 4-5 minutes.Oven: 325°F for 8-10 minutes wrapped in foil.Microwave: 20-30 seconds per piece.Skillet: Heat on low with a little butter until warmed through.❄️ FREEZING: Wrap cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in freezer bags for up to 3 months.Thaw at room temperature before reheating.💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS: Preheating the skillet helps create crispy edges.Do not preheat with butter in the pan - it may burn and create a bitter flavor.Do not overmix the batter, or the cornbread can turn tough.Add-ins like chopped jalapeños or green chilies, shredded cheese, herbs, or red pepper flakes give extra flavor.🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS:Baking dish: Use a 9x9 dish and bake 18-20 minutes.Muffins: Divide into muffin tins and bake at 400°F for 12-14 minutes.Air fryer: Pour batter into a parchment-lined 8-inch pan and cook at 350°F for 15-18 minutes.♻️ LEFTOVERS: Crumble leftover cornbread into chili or soups.Use as a base for cornbread stuffing.Toast slices and top with butter and jam for breakfast.