There’s something about Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers that instantly takes me back to those cozy afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where the scent of warm cornbread mingled with the sweet drizzle of honey and the soft chatter of family. These poppers are more than just a snack—they’re a hug from the South, a little golden moment wrapped in buttery bliss. I remember sitting next to my sister Ouma as Mama Lou carefully folded the sweet corn kernels into her batter, sharing stories and laughter that made every bite taste like home. Today, I want to share that same feeling with you, through a recipe that’s both comforting and downright addictive.
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Why You’ll Love This Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers
What makes Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers so special isn’t just their sweet, buttery flavor—it’s the tradition and love baked right into them. Growing up, Mama Lou’s kitchen was the heart of our home, and no gathering was complete without her famous cornbread. These poppers take that classic cornbread and transform it into irresistible bite-sized treats, perfect for sharing or sneaking a few when no one’s looking.
Each popper is a little golden nugget bursting with honey sweetness and rich butter, a perfect balance of moist and crumbly that melts in your mouth. They remind me of family get-togethers, where Ouma and I would compete over who got the last popper, both of us knowing Mama Lou had made plenty but still feeling like it was a rare treasure. Plus, they’re easy to make, which means you can recreate that warm Southern hospitality anytime you want, whether it’s for a holiday, a casual dinner, or just because.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted + extra for brushing
- 1/3 cup honey (local honey if you can get it—it makes all the difference!)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
Mama Lou always emphasized the importance of fresh ingredients, especially when it came to honey. She swore by the honey from the little farm down the road, saying it held the spirit of the land. If you don’t have fresh corn on hand, frozen works just fine, but fresh corn kernels bring that extra burst of sweetness that makes these poppers truly special.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving (2-3 poppers)
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g (mostly from butter)
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g (from honey and sugar)
- Sodium: 220mg
These numbers are based on homemade versions without added toppings. The richness comes mostly from butter and honey, so if you’re watching your sugar or fat intake, you can adjust the honey or butter amounts slightly without losing too much of that signature Southern charm.
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Irresistible Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers You Need to Try
Learn how to make delicious Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted + extra for brushing
- 1/3 cup honey (local honey if you can get it—it makes all the difference!)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
Mama Lou always emphasized the importance of fresh ingredients, especially when it came to honey. She swore by the honey from the little farm down the road, saying it held the spirit of the land. If you don’t have fresh corn on hand, frozen works just fine, but fresh corn kernels bring that extra burst of sweetness that makes these poppers truly special.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray. Mama Lou always said, “Never skimp on the butter—it’s what gives it that golden crust.”
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and honey. Stir until everything is smooth and well mixed.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; Mama Lou taught me that the batter should be just combined to keep the poppers tender.
- Fold in the corn kernels, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, fill each mini muffin cup about 3/4 full with batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and immediately brush the tops with a little melted butter and an extra drizzle of honey for that glossy, sticky finish. This step is my sister Ouma’s favorite—she swears it’s what makes them irresistible!
- Let the poppers cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray. Mama Lou always said, “Never skimp on the butter—it’s what gives it that golden crust.”
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and honey. Stir until everything is smooth and well mixed.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; Mama Lou taught me that the batter should be just combined to keep the poppers tender.
- Fold in the corn kernels, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, fill each mini muffin cup about 3/4 full with batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and immediately brush the tops with a little melted butter and an extra drizzle of honey for that glossy, sticky finish. This step is my sister Ouma’s favorite—she swears it’s what makes them irresistible!
- Let the poppers cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers
These poppers might look simple, but there are a few tricks Mama Lou and I learned over countless afternoons that make all the difference: Learn more: Irresistibly Moist Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe You Need to Try
- Use fresh corn kernels: They add that juicy sweetness and little pops of texture that frozen corn can’t quite match.
- Don’t overmix the batter: It’s tempting to stir until smooth, but a few lumps keep the texture tender and fluffy.
- Brush with honey butter immediately after baking: This locks in moisture and creates a shiny, sweet crust that’s just divine.
- Mini muffin tins are key: They turn a classic cornbread recipe into delightful bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or snacking.
- Let the batter rest briefly: If you have time, let the batter sit for 10 minutes before baking. It helps the cornmeal absorb the moisture for a better crumb.
One of my favorite memories is when Ouma and I tried doubling the recipe for a big family reunion. We ended up with a mountain of poppers, and Mama Lou laughed as she watched us sneak bite after bite before the guests even arrived. It’s proof that these little gems disappear fast—so be prepared to make extras!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers shine on their own, but they also make a fantastic companion to a variety of dishes. Here are a few ways I love to serve them:
- Alongside a hearty bowl of chicken and sausage gumbo, soaking up that spicy, savory broth.
- With a drizzle of hot honey or a dollop of whipped honey butter for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Paired with a fresh green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- As an appetizer at family gatherings, served with pimento cheese or a smoky bacon jam.
- With Sunday dinner classics like fried chicken and collard greens, just like Mama Lou used to make.
I remember one chilly evening when I served these poppers with slow-cooked collard greens and fried catfish. Ouma and I sat on the porch, plates in hand, watching the sunset and feeling grateful for the simple joys that food and family bring. That’s the magic of these poppers—they bring people together and create memories.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which might be rare!), here’s how to keep your Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers tasting fresh and delicious:
- Store cooled poppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or reheat before serving.
- To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy edges and warm center.
- A quick zap in the microwave works too, but be careful not to overheat or they’ll turn tough.
- You can freeze poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until warmed through.
One time, after a big family reunion, Ouma and I packed leftover poppers in our cooler. They made the perfect road trip snack the next day, reminding us that good food travels well and memories linger longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers?
The main ingredients for Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers?
The total time to make Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers ahead of time?
Yes, Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers?
Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Southern style Honey Butter Cornbread poppers are more than just a recipe—they’re a little slice of home, a warm embrace from Mama Lou’s kitchen, and a testament to the power of food to connect us. Whether you’re making them for your family, friends, or just for yourself, these golden bites carry with them stories of love, tradition, and simple Southern joy.
Every time I bake these poppers, I’m reminded of those afternoons with Mama Lou and Ouma, the laughter, the stories, and the feeling of belonging. I hope when you make them, you find that same comfort and happiness in each bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring a little Southern sweetness into your kitchen today—you won’t regret it.
