Description
Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are delicious, golden-fried bites that combine the sweet and savory flavors of honey, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of bacon or jalapeños. These crispy, fluffy cornbread treats are perfect as a Southern-inspired appetizer, served warm with a luscious honey butter glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños (optional)
For Frying
- Oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Honey Butter Glaze
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This creates the base of your batter and ensures even leavening.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and honey until thoroughly mixed to provide moisture and sweetness to the batter.
- Combine Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the texture light. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, cooked crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños for added flavor and heat.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet or heavy pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to achieve perfect frying temperature.
- Fry the Poppers: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until the poppers are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried poppers with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil, ensuring a crisp texture.
- Prepare Honey Butter Glaze: Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, then stir in honey until combined into a smooth glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Brush or drizzle the warm honey butter glaze over the hot poppers just before serving to add a sweet and buttery finish that enhances their flavor.
Notes
- Serve these poppers fresh and warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
- Increase the amount of jalapeño for a spicier kick or omit cheese for a milder version.
- You can also bake them in mini muffin tins at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes as a healthier alternative.
