Biscuit Bread (Pone Bread) Recipe: Southern Cast Iron Favorite

In Southern kitchens, few things evoke nostalgia like the hiss of bacon grease heating in a cast iron skillet. This biscuit bread recipe, also known as pone bread, marries that quintessential flavor with the rustic charm of handmade bread. Imagine tearing into a golden crust, revealing a tender, fluffy interior that soaks up butter and jam—or sops up hearty stews and soups. Whether you call it pone, skillet bread, or plain old biscuit bread, this loaf is as adaptable as it is delicious.

I first encountered pone bread at my grandmother’s farm, where the oven door barely closed around a seasoned skillet filled with bubbling lard and flour batter. My mama taught me that the secret lies in the hot pan: a swift blast of heat sets the bottom crust immediately, giving it that signature crunch. Then, a quick bake at high temperature puffs the bread to perfection.

In this post, I’ll share a foolproof biscuit bread recipe that requires only three ingredients—self-rising flour, buttermilk, and a hint of bacon grease. You’ll learn why each step matters, how to avoid common pitfalls, and plenty of serving ideas to elevate your meal. Even if you’ve never baked bread before, this recipe is so simple you’ll nail it on your first try. So grab your cast iron, heat that grease, and let’s bake a loaf that’ll transport you straight to Grandma’s table.

Quick Poll: How do you like your bread—slathered in butter, drizzled with honey, or paired with a savory stew? Cast your vote in the comments!

Why You’ll Love This Biscuit Bread Recipe

Three-ingredient simplicity: self-rising flour, buttermilk, and bacon grease
No kneading or proofing: mix, bake, and enjoy within 20 minutes
Perfect crust-to-crumb ratio: crispy bottom, soft interior
Versatile: serves as a side, base for open-faced sandwiches, or sweet toast
Authentic Southern flavor: bacon grease adds depth and nostalgia

Ingredients for Pone Bread

2 cups self-rising flour, spooned & leveled
1 cup buttermilk, cold or room temperature
1 teaspoon bacon grease (or lard)

Equipment: 10-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan, oven preheated to 450°F

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Heat the Skillet

First, place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in your oven as it preheats to 450°F (230°C).
Then, add 1 teaspoon of bacon grease to the hot skillet. Let it melt and coating the bottom and sides until it smokes lightly, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Mix the Batter

Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups self-rising flour and 1 cup buttermilk.
Next, mix until just combined—no over-mixing! The batter should be thick, slightly shaggy, and scoopable with a spoon.

3. Transfer to Skillet

After the skillet is good and hot, carefully remove it from the oven using an oven mitt.
Then, spoon the batter directly into the skillet, smoothing the top with a spatula. The grease will sizzle on contact, setting the bottom crust instantly.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

Next, return the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–17 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 5 minutes.

5. Cool & Serve

Finally, remove the skillet from the oven and let the bread cool for 5 minutes. Slide the loaf onto a cutting board or serve directly from the pan.
Serve warm with plenty of butter, honey, or your favorite jam.

Tips, Variations & Troubleshooting

Flour Options: Mix 1 cup self-rising flour with 1 cup all-purpose flour plus 1½ tsp baking powder for lighter crumb.
Milk Swaps: Use buttermilk for tanginess, or plain yogurt thinned with milk.
Grease Alternatives: Butter or vegetable oil works, but bacon grease adds authentic flavor.
Herbed Pone: Stir in chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) and garlic powder.
Sweet Twist: Add 2 tbsp sugar and top with cinnamon sugar for breakfast bread.
Stuck in Skillet? Allow full 5-minute rest before unmolding, then gently run a spatula under edges.

Serving Suggestions

This biscuit bread recipe is the ultimate side for soups like Classic Chicken and Dumplings It also shines as a base for open-faced sandwich: think egg salad, pimento cheese, or pulled pork. For a brunch twist, slice and toast, then top with avocado and poached eggs. Leftovers make delightful French toast—dip in egg batter, fry, and serve with syrup.

Fun Engagement

Do you prefer your pone savory or sweet? Comment below with your favorite combo—mine’s maple butter and a sprinkle of sea salt!

FAQ (Schema-Ready)

Q1: Can I bake pone bread in a Dutch oven?
A: Yes—preheat your Dutch oven, then lower batter in, cover, and bake similarly.

Q2: Why use self-rising flour?
A: It contains leavening and salt, ensuring perfect rise and flavor without measuring extra ingredients.

Q3: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm slices in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or toast in a skillet for a fresh-crust finish.

Call to Action

Did this biscuit bread recipe bring back Southern memories? Share your favorite toppings, photos, or twists in the comments. Don’t forget to pin this easy skillet bread for your next meal!