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BEST RECIPE for Southern-style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers

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These Southern-style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are bite-sized, golden delights that combine the classic comfort of cornbread with a touch of honeyed sweetness. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re quick to make, easy to customize, and loved by all. Whether baked or fried, they deliver crisp edges, a soft center, and irresistible flavor with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the poppers:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 cup creamed corn (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped turkey bacon (optional)
  • Oil, for frying (if frying instead of baking)

For the honey butter:

  • 1/4 cup softened butter
  • 1 1/2 tbsp honey

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg until smooth.
  3. Stir in the melted butter and honey to the buttermilk mixture.
  4. If using creamed corn, add it to the wet mixture and mix gently.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined—do not overmix.
  6. Fold in shredded cheese, finely chopped green onions, and turkey bacon, if using.
  7. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper liners.
  8. Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. If frying, heat 1 1/2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the hot oil and fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  11. To prepare the honey butter, mix the softened butter with honey in a small bowl until smooth, then brush it over the warm poppers or serve it as a dip on the side.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter—this keeps the poppers light and fluffy.

For more flavor, try adding minced jalapeños or swapping cheese varieties.

If making ahead, store cooled poppers in an airtight container and reheat before serving.