Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

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Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Introduction

Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are bite-sized delights that combine the sweet, buttery essence of classic cornbread with a crispy, golden exterior.

Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these poppers are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cornbread Poppers:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Butter:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 pinch salt

Optional Additions

  • Cheesy Twist: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 finely chopped jalapeño for a touch of heat.
  • Herbal Touch: Add 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the batter.

Tips for Success

  1. Consistency Matters: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped but not overly stiff.
  2. Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy poppers.
  3. Small Batches: Fry the poppers in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
  4. Drain Properly: Place the fried poppers on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and honey.
    • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  2. Heat the Oil:
    • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Shape the Poppers:
    • Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the batter. Roll into small balls if needed.
  4. Fry the Poppers:
    • Carefully drop the batter balls into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
    • Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  5. Make the Honey Butter:
    • In a small bowl, mix softened butter, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the cornbread poppers warm with the honey butter on the side or drizzled on top.

Description

These Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers boast a crispy outer shell and a soft, fluffy interior. The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the buttery richness, creating a delightful balance of flavors in every bite.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, 1/4 recipe)

  • Calories: 290
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are the perfect way to elevate classic cornbread into a fun, shareable treat. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to be a hit at your table.

Recommendation

Pair these poppers with fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or a bowl of hearty chili for a true Southern-inspired meal. Serve them at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a healthier twist, bake the poppers in a mini muffin tin at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Use a light butter alternative for the honey butter to keep the indulgence guilt-free while retaining the delicious flavors.

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