Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe

Introduction

Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are bite-sized treats that combine the comforting flavors of cornbread with a gooey cheddar cheese center. These poppers are golden, tender, and glazed with a sweet honey butter for an irresistible finish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for stuffing)
• Honey Butter Glaze:
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the buttermilk and melted butter.
3. Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Step 4: Scoop about a tablespoon of batter, flatten it slightly in your hand, place a pinch or cube of shredded cheddar cheese in the center, then fold the batter around the cheese and roll it into a ball.
5. Step 5: To bake, place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. To fry, heat oil to 350°F and fry the balls for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden.
6. Step 6: Mix the honey and melted butter to make the glaze, then brush it generously over the warm poppers immediately after baking or frying.
7. Step 7: Serve warm with extra honey butter on the side for dipping and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor or try pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.
• For a crispy outside with a tender inside, try frying the poppers instead of baking.

Storage

Store any leftover cornbread poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a warm oven or toaster oven to regain crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and shape the poppers in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated, then bake or fry just before serving for best results.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack work well too, depending on your flavor preference.

Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 98 reviews

These Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are delightful bite-sized treats featuring a cornbread batter stuffed with melted cheddar cheese, baked or fried to golden perfection, then glazed with a luscious honey butter. Perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, they offer a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors with a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy center.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 poppers 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Honey Butter Glaze

• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the buttermilk and melted butter, mixing until blended. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix for a tender crumb.
2. Shape and Fill: Scoop about a tablespoon of batter and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small cube or a pinch of shredded cheddar cheese in the center, then fold the batter over the cheese and carefully roll it into a smooth ball, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
3. Bake or Fry: For baking, arrange the cornbread balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart, and bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown. For frying, heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they become crispy and golden on all sides. Drain excess oil on paper towels if frying.
4. Glaze with Honey Butter: While the poppers are still warm, mix together the honey and melted butter. Using a brush, generously coat the poppers with this honey butter glaze to add a glossy, sweet finish that complements the savory cornbread and cheese.
5. Serve and Devour: Serve the honey butter cornbread poppers warm for the best taste experience. They’re delicious on their own or with additional honey butter on the side for dipping. Enjoy these irresistible bite-sized treats as a snack, appetizer, or party favorite.

Notes

• You can bake or fry these poppers depending on your preference for a healthier or crispier texture.
• Ensure the cheese is well-sealed inside the batter balls to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
• Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Serve immediately after glazing to enjoy them warm and fresh.
• Leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

Keywords: cornbread poppers, honey butter, cheddar cheese cornbread, baked cornbread snacks, savory cornbread balls, appetizer recipe