Southern Honey Butter Cornbread

This Southern-style honey butter cornbread is a perfect combination of sweetness and tender crumb that has been a favorite in my kitchen whenever I crave something warm and comforting. It strikes a beautiful balance between the grainy texture of cornmeal and the gentle richness of honey and butter, making it a delightful side for any meal or a treat on its own.

I first made this during a chilly weekend when I wanted a cozy snack and ever since, it has become a must-have whenever I want something sweet but not overpowering

Ingredients

• Cornmeal: gives the cornbread its characteristic rustic texture, choose finely ground for softness
• All-purpose flour: balances the cornmeal and helps the bread hold together, pick unbleached for best flavor
• Granulated sugar: sweetens gently without being cloying
• Baking powder: for that light, fluffy rise so the cornbread isn't dense
• Salt: enhances all flavors, use fine sea salt if possible
• Buttermilk: adds moisture and a subtle tang, fresh or cultured both work well
• Vegetable oil: keeps the bread moist without adding extra flavor
• Eggs: bind everything and add richness, large eggs at room temperature are best
• Honey: the star sweetener, go raw or local if you can for depth of flavor
• Unsalted butter: melted, ensures the batter is rich and buttery, unsalted lets you control the saltiness
• Optional cayenne pepper: adds a surprising spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the honey sweetness

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and lightly grease a mini muffin tin using cooking spray or softened unsalted butter. This preparation ensures an easy release and even cooking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until they are fully blended. A thorough mix here creates an even texture.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and honey until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This ensures the wet ingredients meld properly and distribute sweetness evenly.

Incorporate Wet with Dry:

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry and stir just until the ingredients come together. Avoid overmixing which can make the cornbread tough rather than tender.

Fold in Butter and Spice:

Gently fold the melted butter into the batter, ensuring it is evenly distributed but not overworked. If you desire a little heat, add the cayenne pepper now and fold it in carefully.

Fill Muffin Tin:

Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin cups filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the tin in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Look for a golden top and test doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick that should come out clean.

Prepare Honey Butter Drizzle:

While baking, combine some more melted butter with honey and stir until it becomes a smooth drizzly sauce. This will top the cornbread perfectly.

Cool and Drizzle:

When removed from the oven, let the cornbread poppers cool in the tin for roughly five minutes. Then, gently unmold each piece and drizzle generously with the warm honey butter.

I adore how the honey butter topping creates a shiny, sticky finish that is so irresistible. One time our family gathered around and devoured these almost too quickly, the blend of sweetness and buttery warmth made it unforgettable.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cornbread poppers covered at room temperature for up to two days to retain softness. For longer storage freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months and thaw naturally before reheating in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

Buttermilk can be swapped with regular milk plus a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if you don't have it handy. For a dairy-free version use almond milk or oat milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar. Honey is best for flavor but maple syrup can work in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with chili or barbecue as an indulgent side. Alternatively enjoy them as a sweet snack or breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or tea. A sprinkle of cinnamon on the honey butter drizzle adds a lovely cozy twist.

I learned the hard way that melting the butter slowly and folding it in ensures it doesn't seize and ruin the batter.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What makes Southern-style cornbread unique?

Its moist texture and the addition of honey butter provide a sweet, rich contrast to the tender cornmeal base.

→ Can I add spice to the cornbread batter?

Yes, folding in cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of honey and butter.

→ What's the best way to prevent sticking in mini muffin tins?

Lightly greasing the tin with cooking spray or softened butter ensures easy removal after baking.

→ How do I know when the cornbread is fully baked?

The cornbread is done when the tops turn golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

→ Why should I drizzle honey butter while the cornbread is warm?

Applying honey butter warm allows it to soak slightly into the cornbread, enhancing flavor and moisture.