Sweet Cornbread Bites

Golden, buttery, and lightly sweetened with honey, these bite-sized cornbread poppers are the perfect addition to any meal!

The Best Bite-Sized Cornbread Treat

If you love classic Southern cornbread, you’ll fall head over heels for these Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers. They have all the rich, golden-brown flavor of cornbread, but in a fun, poppable form that makes them irresistible for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or pairing with your favorite Southern meal.

Irresistible Buttery Goodness in Every Bite

With slightly crisp edges, a tender buttery crumb, and a drizzle of honey butter on top, these cornbread poppers melt in your mouth with every bite. Serve them warm with chili, BBQ, or breakfast eggs, and watch them disappear faster than you can make them!

I made these for a Southern-style Sunday dinner, and let me tell you—there wasn’t a single crumb left! My family went crazy over the warm honey drizzle and asked me to double the batch next time.

Ingredients & What They Do

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal: Gives the classic cornbread texture with a slight crunch. Use medium or fine grind for the best results.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a light and fluffy texture while balancing the cornmeal’s coarseness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the poppers rise beautifully and stay airy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds a slight sweetness and helps with caramelization for that golden crust.

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup whole milk: Keeps the poppers moist and rich. Buttermilk can also be used for extra tang.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds the batter and adds structure.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds rich, buttery flavor and keeps the texture tender.
• 3 tablespoons honey: The key to that signature Southern sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Deepens the flavor, making the honey and butter shine.

Topping & Finish

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing after baking): Locks in moisture and enhances the crust.
• 3 tablespoons honey (for drizzling on warm poppers): Provides a beautiful glaze and extra sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Optionally, use parchment muffin liners for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then mix in milk, melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, fill each muffin cup about ¾ full.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch

While the poppers are still warm, brush each one with melted butter and drizzle with honey.

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Storage & Meal Prep

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Warm before serving.

Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap each popper individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, or microwave for 20 seconds.

Creative Variations & Add-Ins

• 🔥 Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Poppers: Add ½ cup chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• 🧀 Cheesy Cornbread Poppers: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese.
• 🥓 Bacon & Chive Cornbread Poppers: Fold in ¼ cup crumbled bacon and 1 tablespoon chopped chives.
• 🌽 Sweet Corn Cornbread Poppers: Add ½ cup whole sweet corn kernels for extra texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, store them in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack or pepper jack work well for extra flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4 days.

→ Can I freeze these cornbread poppers?

Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What’s the best way to serve these?

Drizzle with extra honey butter and garnish with fresh herbs for a delicious touch!