If you’re craving bite-sized bursts of sweet, buttery, and golden cornbread goodness, these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are the ultimate treat. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or alongside hearty Southern dishes. The honey butter glaze takes these poppers to the next level!
Ingredients
For the Cornbread Poppers:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Honey Butter Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- In another bowl, combine the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to maintain the temperature.
Step 3: Fry the Cornbread Poppers
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop tablespoon-sized dollops of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry in small batches, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the poppers with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Glaze the Poppers
- While the poppers are still warm, drizzle or brush them generously with the honey butter glaze.
- For extra sweetness, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt on top.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Pair with chili, fried chicken, or collard greens for a classic Southern meal.
- Add a small bowl of extra honey butter for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the batter dense. Stir just until combined.
- Temperature Control: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure the poppers cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and fry when ready to serve.
- Baked Option: For a healthier version, spoon the batter into a greased mini-muffin tin and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought cornbread mix?
Yes! Replace the dry ingredients with 1 cup of your favorite cornbread mix. Follow the recipe for the wet ingredients and glaze.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover poppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up.
3. Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! Try mixing in shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, or crumbled bacon for a savory twist.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a sweet and savory delight that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfectly golden, buttery, and drizzled with a touch of honey magic—what’s not to love? 🧈🍯🌽
