Southern Honey Butter Cornbread is a beloved dish that warms the heart and brings people together. When I think of this cornbread, I can picture family gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. This cornbread is not just a side; it’s an experience. The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, and the buttery flavor dances on your tongue. What makes Southern Honey Butter Cornbread truly special is its delightful sweetness and fluffy texture, making it a favorite at any table. You can serve it with a bowl of chili or enjoy it all by itself, smeared with honey butter. Taking just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, this recipe is worth giving a try.
Why Make This Recipe
So, why should you whip up this Southern Honey Butter Cornbread? First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With most of the ingredients right in your pantry, you won’t have to run to the store. Using a box of cornbread mix, you can create a fluffy, golden loaf in no time. This recipe is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cooks. Even your kids can help measure and mix, making it a fun family activity!
Let’s talk about flavor. The combination of sweet honey and creamy butter complemented by the subtle savory additions makes every bite a joy. It’s sweet enough to satisfy your cravings but still pairs well with savory dishes like chicken or beans. Additionally, this cornbread can be a comfort food that gives you a feeling of home, timelessness, and warmth. It’s great for evenings by the fireplace, potluck dinners with friends, or gatherings during holidays.
Beyond just taste, this cornbread carries some cherished memories. Many people have their own stories of enjoying cornbread at family dinners or community events. It’s a recipe that brings families together and creates connections, making it more than just a dish but a part of your family heritage.
How to Make Southern Honey Butter Cornbread
Making Southern Honey Butter Cornbread is simple, and the process will fill your home with a wonderful fragrance. First, you’ll start by gathering all your ingredients—you’ll love the satisfying feel of measuring and mixing them. As you pour the cornbread mix into the bowl, feel the texture in your fingers and see the fine yellow grains.
Next, add your wet ingredients: milk, eggs, and melted butter. This step is where the magic happens. As you stir your mix, you’ll hear the gentle swishing sound, and soon, you’ll have a batter that feels smooth and creamy. It’s essential to mix just enough—be careful not to overmix, or your cornbread might turn out dense!
Then comes the fun part—folding in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese. You’ll notice different colors and textures adding depth to your batter. The sweet corn and melty cheese will make your cornbread extra special.
Once everything is combined, pour your lovely batter into the greased baking dish. The golden-yellow batter will spread and create a beautiful base. As it bakes, it will rise and produce a delightful aroma that will have everyone’s stomach growling.
After your cornbread is done baking, give it a little while to cool before cutting into it. This waiting period allows the textures to settle. Finally, brush on the honey butter mixture. As you spread it across the warm top, it will melt gently and soak into the cornbread, creating a glistening finish.
Your Southern Honey Butter Cornbread will be soft, fluffy, and simply irresistible!
Ingredients
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1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz) – This is the base of your cornbread. It provides fluffiness and convenience (and allows you to skip a few steps!). Alternatives include homemade cornbread mix for those who want a personal touch.
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1/2 cup milk – Milk gives richness and moisture, making sure your cornbread stays soft. You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk if you are dairy-free.
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2 large eggs – Eggs help bind everything together and give a lovely rise to the cornbread. Flax eggs are a good option if you’re vegan.
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Butter adds rich flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you could use vegetable oil or another non-dairy butter alternative.
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1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) – Corn adds sweetness and texture. You can use canned corn, but make sure to drain it well.
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1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheese lends a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the cornbread. You can swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick or omit it for a dairy-free version.
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1/4 teaspoon salt – Salt brings out flavors, complementing the sweetness. You can reduce this if you’re watching sodium intake.
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A little black pepper adds a subtle warmth. You can skip it if you prefer a completely sweet cornbread.
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – This will make your honey butter spreadable and delicious. Use coconut oil or non-dairy butter as a substitute to keep it dairy-free.
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3 tablespoons honey – Honey provides a wonderful sweetness that makes the cornbread unforgettable. Maple syrup can be used in its place for a unique twist.
Directions
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Preheat the oven. Start by preheating the oven according to the cornbread mix package instructions. This usually means setting it to 400°F (200°C), but check your box for specifics.
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Mix the batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir gently until everything is well combined to a smooth batter. Remember, don’t overmix! This will keep your cornbread light and fluffy.
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Add the extras. Now, fold in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula and gently mix until everything is incorporated. You want to see little pockets of corn and cheese!
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Pour into the pan. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish. You can use a 9×9 inch square pan or a round one. Make sure it’s greased well to avoid sticking.
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Bake. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake according to package instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cornbread is ready!
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Prepare the honey butter. While the cornbread bakes, mix together the softened butter and honey in a small bowl. This sweet concoction is what makes the cornbread special!
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Brush on the honey butter. Once your cornbread is out of the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Brush the honey butter mixture generously on top while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt into every nook.
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Slice and serve. Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or wedges. Serve it warm for the best experience, and don’t forget to enjoy it with extra honey butter on the side.
How to Serve Southern Honey Butter Cornbread
Southern Honey Butter Cornbread is versatile, making it suitable for any meal. You can serve it as a side dish for a hearty bowl of chili, soup, or stew. This cornbread is also perfect for breakfast with a side of eggs and bacon or just with a cup of coffee.
If you’re planning a gathering, it makes an excellent addition to holiday dinners or potlucks. Imagine a big dish of cornbread sitting on the table, inviting everyone to dive in. You can also enjoy it with a drizzle of extra honey, creating a delightful treat as a dessert.
Consider offering it alongside fresh fruit preserves or even a spreadable cheese for varied pairing options. The sweetness of the cornbread contrasts beautifully with savory dishes or tangy toppings, making it a joy to present.
How to Store Southern Honey Butter Cornbread
After enjoying your cornbread, you might find yourself with some leftovers. No problem! Storing it properly keeps it fresh for later enjoyment.
Fridge Storage
To stay fresh, wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage, you can freeze the cornbread. Cut it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place them into a freezer bag to keep air out. You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. You can also pop them in a toaster oven for a crispy finish or oven for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Southern Honey Butter Cornbread
Here are some useful tricks to make the best cornbread:
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Don’t overmix. This is key! A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can cause your cornbread to be tough, which you don’t want.
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Grease your pan well. This will help your cornbread come out easily after baking. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil.
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Check for doneness. Always check with a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few crumbs, that’s fine; it’s best not to overbake it.
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Add flavor. Don’t be shy about adding your favorite spices or herbs to the batter for an extra twist!
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Serve warm. Cornbread is best enjoyed warm, so if you can, serve it right out of the oven with honey butter.
Variation
If you want to try something different with your Southern Honey Butter Cornbread, here are a few variations:
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Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños and extra cheese for a spicy kick. It pairs really well with smoky dishes!
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Herb-Infused Cornbread: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist. It adds a lovely flavor that complements many meals.
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Vegan Cornbread: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk and butter. It tastes just as good!
FAQs
Q: Can I make Southern Honey Butter Cornbread ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake it a day before your event. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when needed. It will still taste fresh and delicious.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A: The best way to reheat cornbread is in the microwave. Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. You can also place your slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
Q: Can I use a different cheese or flour?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese or even leave it out. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free cornbread mix.
Southern Honey Butter Cornbread
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A beloved dish that warms the heart, this Southern Honey Butter Cornbread is sweet, fluffy, and pairs perfectly with savory meals.
Ingredients
- 1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or non-dairy butter)
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the cornbread mix package instructions, usually to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir gently until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until incorporated.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake according to package instructions, about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While baking, mix the softened butter and honey in a small bowl for the honey butter.
- After baking, let the cornbread cool for 5-10 minutes, then brush the honey butter on top while warm.
- Slice and serve warm with extra honey butter on the side.
Notes
For a spicy twist, consider adding jalapeños. To make it vegan, substitute with flax eggs and non-dairy ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cornbread, southern dish, honey butter, easy recipe, comfort food