Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

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Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

There’s something so comforting about the smell of warm cornbread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s kissed with sweet honey and golden, buttery edges. These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers have quickly become one of those recipes I make on repeat—not because I have to, but because I want to. I first whipped these up on a busy school night, hoping to bring something warm and cheerful to the dinner table. I had no idea they’d become such a hit.

The first time I served them, my youngest grabbed one, took a bite, and immediately asked for two more. My husband? He declared them “dangerously good” before reaching for a third. There’s just something magical about that crispy, golden crust meeting the tender, moist inside—all drizzled with a touch of honey butter. It’s simple, it’s soulful, and it feels like a little bite of Southern hospitality.

What I love most is how quick and easy these are to whip up. No complicated steps, no fancy equipment—just pantry staples and love. Whether you’re serving them as a side to chili or as an after-school snack, they always bring smiles. These little poppers are proof that something so small can bring so much joy. And once you try them, I’m sure they’ll become a staple in your home, too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use a boxed cornbread mix?
Absolutely! While homemade is best, boxed mix works great in a pinch. Just add a touch more honey and butter to bring out that Southern richness.

Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?
Yes! A mini muffin pan creates the perfect “popper” size, but a regular tin will work—just adjust the baking time a bit longer.

Can I freeze these?
Totally. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Are they very sweet?
They have a hint of sweetness thanks to the honey, but it’s beautifully balanced with the buttery, savory corn flavor.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk like almond or oat. Still delicious!

What You Need to Make Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Ingredients:

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)

1 large egg

Optional: pinch of chopped herbs or sea salt for garnish

Tools:

Mini muffin pan

Mixing bowl

Whisk

Pastry brush (for buttering)

Cooling rack

How to Make Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, honey, melted butter, and egg. Whisk until smooth.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until everything is blended—don’t overmix.

Spoon the batter into the mini muffin pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Brush the tops with a little more melted butter while still warm, and drizzle with extra honey if desired.

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Making the Best Cornbread Poppers

Use buttermilk for that classic Southern tang—don’t skip it!

Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are totally fine and actually help keep the texture tender.

Preheat the muffin pan if you like an even crispier outer crust.

Want extra flavor? Add chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.

No mini muffin tin? Use a regular one and extend baking time by 5–7 minutes.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These were a HUGE hit at my church potluck. Everyone kept asking for the recipe. So easy and so good!” – Karen L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for my toddler’s lunchbox. He loves the hint of sweetness and I love that they’re homemade.” – Melissa D.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Next time I’ll add a little cayenne or jalapeño for a kick, but otherwise these were divine.” – Jay R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made these with chili and oh my goodness, total comfort food combo. Super buttery and moist!” – Anita P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A little too sweet for my taste, but my kids devoured them. Great texture and easy to make.” – Mark S.

Printable Recipe

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