Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe
If you’re searching for a bite-sized treat that brings the soul of the South right to your table, look no further than these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers. Crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, each popper is brimming with sweet corn flavor and a buttery glaze that makes them downright irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for a new side dish, or simply craving some comfort food, these poppers promise to deliver that perfect mix of golden crunch and honeyed warmth in every bite. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers lies in their simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role, from giving the poppers their signature texture to infusing every bite with rich, Southern flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make each ingredient shine.
- Yellow cornmeal: The backbone of any good cornbread, lending that unmistakable rustic texture and hearty corn flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Helps lighten the batter and gives the poppers just enough structure so they fry up beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the savory notes and highlights the honey glaze.
- Baking powder: Essential for getting those poppers to puff up and turn fluffy inside.
- Baking soda: Works alongside the buttermilk for extra lift and tenderness.
- Salt: Brings out all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Buttermilk: Gives the batter a subtle tang and moisture for that classic Southern crumb.
- Large egg: Binds everything together for the perfect popper texture.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Honey: Sweetens the batter and shines in the irresistible glaze.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For a savory kick—feel free to toss some in for extra flavor and gooeyness!
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Make sure you have enough for deep-frying; it ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.
- Butter (for glaze): Melts into the honey for a luscious finishing touch.
- Honey (for glaze): Drizzles over the poppers for that sweet, sticky Southern finish.
How to Make Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a medium-sized mixing bowl and whisking together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures that every popper is evenly flavored and perfectly risen. The cornmeal gives your poppers that rustic bite, while the leaveners guarantee a pillowy inside.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and honey until smooth and well combined. This mixture brings moisture and richness to the batter, setting the stage for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth popper.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir them together gently—just until combined. Overmixing can toughen your poppers, so stop as soon as the batter comes together. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point for a savory twist.
Step 4: Let the Batter Rest
Let the batter rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This short break allows the cornmeal to hydrate fully, which results in poppers that are tender yet sturdy enough to hold up to frying.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
While the batter rests, fill a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot with 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the right temperature is key—hot oil ensures your Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers get that signature crisp exterior without absorbing excess oil.
Step 6: Fry the Poppers
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown evenly on all sides. When they’re golden and cooked through, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
Meanwhile, melt the butter and honey together in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted and combined, you’ll have a warm, glossy glaze that’s destined to be drizzled or brushed over your hot poppers.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve
While the poppers are still warm, brush or drizzle them generously with the honey butter glaze. This final touch infuses every bite with a buttery sweetness and gives the poppers their signature Southern shine.
How to Serve Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers
Garnishes
There’s nothing like a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even a little extra shredded cheddar on top to make your Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers really pop. If you love a little heat, a pinch of cayenne or a few thinly sliced jalapeños add color and kick.
Side Dishes
These poppers are the life of any party platter, but they’re also a fantastic side dish for hearty mains. Serve them next to a steaming bowl of chili, alongside crispy fried chicken, or with smoky barbecue for a classic Southern feast. Their sweet-savory flavor and tender crumb make them a perfect partner for all your comfort food favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by threading the poppers onto skewers, stacking them high on a rustic cake stand, or arranging them in a basket lined with a checkered napkin for that down-home vibe. For a fun twist, serve them with a trio of dipping sauces—think spicy honey, tangy barbecue, and creamy ranch—so everyone can customize their own bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers (a rare but happy occasion), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to a day, or in the fridge for up to three days. The glaze may soak in a bit, but the flavor remains unbeatable.
Freezing
These poppers freeze beautifully! Place cooled, unglazed poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their quality for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat and glaze for that just-made taste.
Reheating
To restore their crispy magic, reheat the poppers in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until heated through and the outside is crisp again. If frozen, extend the time by a few minutes. Brush with fresh honey butter glaze after reheating to bring back their signature shine and sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. The texture may be slightly different, but you’ll still get that wonderful crunch and corn flavor.
What’s the best way to keep the poppers warm for a party?
Pop them in a 200°F oven on a baking sheet loosely covered with foil. This keeps them warm and crisp without drying them out, so they’re ready to serve whenever your guests are hungry.
Can I add mix-ins besides cheese?
Definitely! Try folding in finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy version, crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor, or even a handful of scallions for a fresh twist. Just keep mix-ins small so the poppers hold together well.
Is it possible to bake instead of fry?
You can bake them in a mini muffin tin at 400°F for 10–12 minutes until golden, though they’ll be a bit less crispy than fried. The flavor is still fantastic and you’ll save a little mess in the kitchen!
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small bit of batter into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the top right away. Too cool, and the poppers will absorb oil; too hot, and they’ll brown before cooking through. Aim for a steady bubble and golden color.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your guests or just treat yourself to something special, Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a must-make. Each bite is a little taste of Southern comfort, and once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them for every gathering and craving. Go ahead—fire up the skillet and let the magic happen!
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Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 poppers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers—crispy, golden bites of sweet and savory cornbread fried to perfection and brushed with a luscious honey butter glaze. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for gatherings, these poppers combine classic Southern flavors with a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough for 2–3 inches in the skillet or pot)
Honey Butter Glaze
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and honey. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese if using. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy pot, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 2–3 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), using a kitchen thermometer to monitor temperature accurately for safe frying.
- Fry the Poppers: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 2–3 minutes, turning the poppers occasionally to achieve an even golden brown color and ensure they are cooked through.
- Drain and Cool: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried poppers from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and crisp up.
- Make the Honey Butter Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt butter and honey together over low heat until smooth and combined. Brush or drizzle the warm glaze generously over the freshly fried cornbread poppers to add a shiny, sweet finish.
- Serve: Serve your golden honey butter cornbread poppers warm as a side dish alongside chili, fried chicken, or barbecue, or enjoy them as a savory appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Notes
- For a spicy twist, add finely chopped jalapeño to the batter before frying.
- The poppers are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Keep an eye on oil temperature to prevent the poppers from becoming greasy or undercooked.
- Use a slotted spoon to drain excess oil for a crispier texture.
- Cheddar cheese is optional but adds a delicious savory dimension.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 poppers
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
