Southern-style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe

There's something magical about the golden, crispy edges and soft, buttery centers of Southern-style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers. These bite-sized delights are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with a rich honey butter glaze that makes them downright irresistible.

this Recipe

I first made these cornbread poppers for a family gathering, and they vanished within minutes! Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or alongside a comforting bowl of chili, they bring that classic Southern warmth to any meal.

Why You'll Love These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Get ready to fall in love with the perfect bite-sized twist on traditional cornbread. These poppers are packed with flavor and easy to make!

First, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The golden brown crust gives way to a tender, buttery center that melts in your mouth.

They’re also quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip these up in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Another great reason to love these poppers? They’re perfectly portioned. No need to cut slices of cornbread; these poppers are the ultimate grab-and-go snack or side dish.

And let’s not forget the honey butter glaze. The sweet, glossy coating adds a luscious finishing touch that takes these poppers to the next level.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cornbread poppers comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that create an unbeatable flavor and texture.

Cornmeal is the star of the show. Opt for finely ground yellow cornmeal for the best texture—coarse cornmeal can make the poppers too gritty.

Flour helps balance the cornmeal, giving the poppers a light and tender crumb. A mix of all-purpose flour and cornmeal ensures they hold together while staying fluffy inside.

Buttermilk adds a slight tang and richness. It also helps keep the poppers moist and gives them that signature Southern flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar.

Honey and butter create that irresistible glaze. The honey provides a natural sweetness, while the butter enhances the richness of the poppers, making them extra indulgent.

You’ll also need baking powder, salt, eggs, and a touch of sugar to bring everything together into a perfectly balanced batter.

How To Make These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Making these cornbread poppers is incredibly simple, and the results are well worth the effort.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a mini muffin tin. This helps ensure the poppers release easily and develop that crisp golden crust.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture forms the base of the batter and ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until well combined. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the poppers dense.

Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the poppers bake, prepare the honey butter glaze by melting butter and stirring in honey. As soon as the poppers come out of the oven, brush the warm honey butter over the tops, allowing it to soak in for maximum flavor.

Storage Options

These cornbread poppers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later!

To keep them at their best, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, freeze the poppers in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Cheesy Cornbread Poppers: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a savory kick.
• Spicy Honey Butter Poppers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Maple Butter Glaze: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a different sweet twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the buttermilk with almond milk + vinegar, use a flax egg, and swap the butter with plant-based butter.

With so many ways to customize, you can easily make these poppers your own. However you choose to enjoy them, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite!

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