Name: Easy Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487534H1M42S
Total time: PT-487534H1M42S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: For the Cornbread Poppers:; 1 cup yellow cornmeal; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 large egg; ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained); For the Honey Butter Glaze:; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons honey

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Infused with sweet honey and rich butter, each bite delivers a comforting burst of flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these poppers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Easy Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Ingredients

For the Cornbread Poppers:

1 cup yellow cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons honey
1 large egg
½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons honey

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, honey, and egg until well combined. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the corn kernels.
Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Honey Butter Glaze: While the poppers are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the melted butter and honey until smooth.
Glaze the Poppers: Once the poppers are baked, remove them from the oven and immediately brush the honey butter glaze over the warm cornbread poppers.
Serve: Serve warm with extra honey butter on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 24 poppers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 22–25 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Cornbread Poppers: Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 finely chopped jalapeño for a touch of heat.
Herbal Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the batter for an aromatic flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cornbread poppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use regular muffin tins instead of mini muffin tins?

Yes, you can use regular muffin tins. Just note that the baking time will be longer—approximately 20–25 minutes.

Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake them just before serving.

Can I freeze these cornbread poppers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked poppers. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with buttermilk, almond milk, or any other milk alternative. Buttermilk will add a slight tanginess to the flavor.

How can I make these poppers gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add other mix-ins to the batter?

Yes, you can add cooked bacon bits, diced bell peppers, or sautéed onions for added flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the poppers from sticking to the pan?

Grease the mini muffin tin thoroughly or use mini paper liners to ensure easy removal.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use canned corn. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well before adding to the batter.

How do I know when the poppers are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a popper; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done.

Can I make these poppers dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk alternative to make these poppers dairy-free.

Conclusion

Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a delightful and versatile treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. With their perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these poppers are a must-try for any cornbread lover.