Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers bring a delightful twist to the traditional cornbread. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft and moist on the inside, with the addition of honey butter that adds the perfect finishing touch. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these poppers are bound to become a favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cornbread Poppers:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Butter:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cornbread Batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined, pour them into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure the cornbread remains light and fluffy.
Once the wet and dry ingredients are incorporated, fold in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) for an extra flavor boost. Allow the batter to sit for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly before frying.
2. Heat the Oil
Next, prepare your frying pan. Heat about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat in a deep skillet or frying pan. You want just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, but the amount can be adjusted based on the size of your pan.
To test if the oil is ready, drop a small spoonful of batter into the pan. If it sizzles and floats to the top immediately, the oil is hot enough for frying.
3. Fry the Cornbread Poppers
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the cornbread batter into the hot oil. Fry the poppers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will allow the poppers to cook evenly and become golden brown and crispy on each side.
Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes on each side, turning them carefully to ensure an even golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the poppers from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.
4. Make the Honey Butter
While the cornbread poppers are cooling, prepare the honey butter. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, honey, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The honey butter will be drizzled over or used as a dip for the poppers.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cornbread poppers have cooled slightly, drizzle or dip them into the freshly made honey butter. Serve them warm and enjoy these delicious treats that perfectly balance sweet and savory flavors.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Poppers
Air Fryer Option
If you prefer a healthier version of these cornbread poppers, you can use an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the poppers with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy on all sides.
Using Frozen Corn
If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the batter. Excess moisture from the corn can make the batter too runny, affecting the texture of the poppers.
Get Creative with Add-Ins
Feel free to customize the cornbread batter with your favorite add-ins. Chopped jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or crispy bacon bits all make delicious additions that enhance the flavor and texture of the poppers.
Make-Ahead Instructions
For convenience, you can prepare the cornbread poppers in advance. Simply fry them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Make the Honey Butter Ahead of Time
The honey butter can be made ahead of time as well. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and let it come to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these cornbread poppers in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cornbread poppers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat them in the oven to bring back the crispy texture before serving. If you’re storing them for more than a day, keep them in the refrigerator and reheat when needed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. The cheese is optional, so you can skip it entirely if you prefer a more traditional cornbread flavor.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
While buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and a tender crumb to the cornbread poppers, you can substitute it with regular milk. For a closer substitute, you can add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes to mimic buttermilk.
How can I make these cornbread poppers spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also serve the honey butter with a touch of hot sauce mixed in for an extra layer of flavor.
Can I bake these cornbread poppers instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake these poppers for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cornbread batter in a greased mini muffin tin or drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
How long can I store leftover cornbread poppers?
Leftover cornbread poppers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these sweet and savory poppers will surely impress your guests. The crispy exterior and soft interior, paired with the rich honey butter, make these poppers a truly unforgettable treat.