Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a snack that’s sweet, buttery, and irresistibly delicious, then these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are just what you need. They’re perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner, a casual potluck, or a festive party. Plus, they’re so easy and fun to make that you’ll want to whip them up again and again. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- These poppers offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- They’re an easy, quick snack or appetizer that everyone will enjoy.
- Perfect bite-sized portions mean no mess and easy sharing.
- The honey butter glaze adds an indulgent touch of richness.
- They can be customized with different spices or ingredients for variety.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for honey butter glaze)
- 2 tablespoons honey (for honey butter glaze)
Directions
Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just blended.
Bake the Poppers
Grease a mini muffin tin or use paper liners. Fill each cup about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the Honey Butter Glaze
While the poppers are baking, melt 1/4 cup butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons honey until fully combined. Once poppers are done, brush with the warm honey butter glaze.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. Learn more about why this matters.
- For a more intense honey flavor, add a teaspoon of honey to the batter.
- Consider using a different type of flour for varied textures.
Variations
- Cheesy Cornbread Poppers: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
- Spicy Cornbread Poppers: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Herbed Cornbread Poppers: Mix in a tablespoon of chopped fresh chives or rosemary.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Mini muffin tin
- Pastry brush
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
These poppers pair wonderfully with a hearty chili, a fresh garden salad, or even a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a Southern-style barbecue.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh baking powder for the best rise. Check the freshness of your baking powder before using.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the poppers light and fluffy.
- Apply the honey butter glaze as soon as the poppers come out of the oven for optimal absorption.
FAQ
- Can I make these poppers gluten-free? Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- How do I prevent the poppers from sticking to the muffin tin? Grease the tin well, or better yet, use paper liners.
- Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the milk as a substitute.