Name: Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon honey

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These Southern-style honey butter cornbread poppers are bite-sized delights with a golden crust, packed with the perfect balance of buttery richness and natural honey sweetness. They’re soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and finished with a luscious honey butter glaze. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love these cornbread poppers because they offer the classic taste of Southern cornbread in a fun, bite-sized form. They are quick to make, requiring just over 20 minutes from start to finish. The honey butter glaze adds a luxurious touch, making them even more irresistible. These poppers are great for parties, family gatherings, or just as a sweet and savory treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup buttermilk

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons honey

1 egg

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon honey

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about ¾ full.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the poppers are baking, mix the melted butter and honey for the glaze.

Remove the poppers from the oven and immediately brush them with the honey butter glaze.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 18 poppers

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Calories per popper: 110 kcal

Variations

Cheesy Cornbread Poppers: Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese to the batter for a savory twist.

Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a little heat.

Maple Butter Glaze: Swap the honey for maple syrup in the glaze for a richer sweetness.

Corn Kernels: Fold in a small handful of fresh or canned corn kernels for extra texture.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore freshness.

Freezing: Freeze for up to three months in a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make these cornbread poppers even fluffier?

Using fresh baking powder and soda ensures they rise properly. Also, avoid overmixing the batter to keep them light and fluffy.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, buttermilk adds a slight tang and tenderness. If substituting, mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

What can I serve with these poppers?

They pair well with chili, barbecue dishes, fried chicken, or even as a side for a holiday meal. They also taste great with extra honey butter on the side!

Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, but they will be larger, so increase the baking time to about 15-18 minutes.

Is it possible to make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Reheat before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

These Southern-style honey butter cornbread poppers are the perfect blend of sweet, buttery, and golden goodness. They are easy to whip up, great for any occasion, and absolutely addictive. Whether served as a snack, side, or appetizer, they are sure to be a hit.

Recipe:

Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 18 poppers
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Southern-style honey butter cornbread poppers are bite-sized treats with a golden crust, a soft, buttery interior, and a luscious honey butter glaze. They are quick, easy, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for any meal. Whether paired with chili, barbecue, or enjoyed on their own, these poppers bring the perfect balance of sweet and savory Southern comfort to your table!

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Fill & Bake: Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Make the Glaze: While baking, mix melted butter and honey for the glaze.
Glaze & Serve: Remove poppers from the oven and immediately brush them with the honey butter glaze. Let cool slightly before serving warm.