Sweet, buttery, and perfectly moist mini cornbread poppers with a warm honey butter drizzle, ideal as a cozy snack or appetizer.

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup melted butter

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon honey (for drizzling)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for drizzling)

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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined — avoid overmixing for tender poppers.
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops turn lightly golden.
While baking, melt the butter and honey together over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined.
Once the poppers come out of the oven, drizzle them with the warm honey butter mixture.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

For a sweet-and-spicy twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or finely chopped jalapeño to the batter.

Fold in shredded cheddar cheese for a savory contrast.

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds; prepare fresh honey butter drizzle when reheating.

Batter can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking; stir gently before use.

To mimic buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup milk and let sit 5 minutes.

Baked poppers freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

Not vegan as is; vegan substitutes include flax eggs, plant-based butter, and maple syrup instead of honey.

To reduce sweetness, lower sugar and honey amounts or omit honey drizzle.