There’s something magical about cornbread. It’s warm, comforting, and downright irresistible when it’s done right. Growing up, cornbread always had a place on our family table. Whether it was paired with a steaming bowl of chili or served alongside fried chicken, it was a staple. But let me tell you—these Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Bites? They take it to a whole new level.
Imagine a golden, fluffy bite-sized cornbread nugget coated in sweet, buttery honey goodness. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for just about any occasion. Let me walk you through how to whip these up in no time. Your family (and taste buds) will thank you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the cornbread bites:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the honey butter glaze:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup honey
- A pinch of salt
How to Make Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to grease the pan, let me save you from the cleanup nightmare—don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick whisk to make sure everything is evenly distributed. The aroma of cornmeal always takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or you’ll end up with scrambled eggs (been there, done that).
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter will be slightly thick but smooth. Resist the urge to overmix—nobody wants tough cornbread bites.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This recipe should yield around 24 mini bites, depending on how generous you are with the scooping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Making the Honey Butter Glaze
While the cornbread bites are baking, it’s time to make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and a pinch of salt. It’s a simple combo, but trust me—it’s magic.
The Grand Finale
Once the cornbread bites are slightly cooled, brush or drizzle the honey butter glaze over each one. Don’t be shy—get generous with that glaze! It soaks into the warm cornbread, adding a sweet, buttery layer of flavor that’s just amazing.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use Buttermilk for Extra Flavor: If you have buttermilk on hand, swap it for regular milk. It adds a tangy richness that’s hard to beat.
- Make Ahead: These bites can be made a day in advance. Just reheat them in a low oven for a few minutes and glaze them right before serving.
- Add Some Extras: Feeling adventurous? Toss in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or diced jalapeños for a savory twist.
Why These Bites Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re portable, easy to share, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a cozy night in. I’ve even served them as an appetizer for holiday gatherings, and they always disappear within minutes. There’s something about the combination of sweet honey and buttery cornbread that hits the spot every time.
And let’s be honest—anything bite-sized just feels more fun to eat.
Pro Tip: Double the Glaze
If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself going back for more of that honey butter glaze. Do yourself a favor and double the recipe. You can use the extra as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over roasted veggies for a sweet-savory twist.
Wrap-Up
There you have it—Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Bites that are easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or just want a little something special for yourself, these bites deliver every time. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out. Better yet, make a double batch—they’re that good!
Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk for extra richness
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- For the honey butter glaze:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- ⅓ cup honey
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to grease the pan, let me save you from the cleanup nightmare—don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick whisk to make sure everything is evenly distributed. The aroma of cornmeal always takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or you’ll end up with scrambled eggs (been there, done that).
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter will be slightly thick but smooth. Resist the urge to overmix—nobody wants tough cornbread bites.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This recipe should yield around 24 mini bites, depending on how generous you are with the scooping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.