Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

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Golden, bite-sized, and bursting with rich Southern flavors, these Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and buttery goodness. Each little popper features a crisp, golden crust that gives way to a soft, moist interior, infused with the comforting taste of honey and butter. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a delicious snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

These delightful cornbread poppers are a fun and easy twist on traditional cornbread, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family meal. Topped with a drizzle of melted honey butter and a sprinkle of fresh chives, they offer the ideal balance of sweetness and warmth. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor!

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Ingredients for Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

For the Cornbread Poppers:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Honey Butter Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and fluffy.

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Step 2: Fill and Bake

Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop, evenly distribute the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and let the poppers cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

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Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Topping

While the poppers are cooling, prepare the honey butter topping. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, honey, and brown sugar until smooth. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat the tops of each cornbread popper with the honey butter mixture while they are still warm.

For an extra touch, sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for a subtle savory contrast.

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Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair perfectly with chili, soups, BBQ dishes, or as a delightful snack on their own. Enjoy the crispy edges, soft center, and irresistible honey butter glaze in every bite!

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

For the best results, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving. If freezing, place the poppers in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 popper):

• Calories: ~90
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Sugar: 5g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

2. Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini one?

Absolutely! Just increase the baking time to 15-18 minutes and check with a toothpick for doneness.

3. How do I make these poppers extra crispy?

For an extra crispy texture, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes or brush with melted butter before baking.

4. Can I add cheese or jalapeños?

Yes! Adding shredded cheddar cheese or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter will give them a delicious, savory kick.

5. What can I serve these with?

These pair perfectly with BBQ meats, chili, soups, or even as a side for fried chicken.

6. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake them fresh, but you can refrigerate the batter for up to 12 hours before baking. Stir gently before using.

7. Can I substitute honey with maple syrup?

Yes! Maple syrup works as a great alternative and gives a slightly different but delicious flavor.

8. How do I keep them from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake them, and always store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.

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