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Honey Butter Cornbread Recipe - Sweet, Buttery, and Comforting

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 9 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fine or medium-ground yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (optional for sweeter cornbread; reduce to 2 tbsp if you prefer less sweet)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup honey, plus more for brushing
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (plus 1–2 tbsp for greasing and finishing)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup corn kernels, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, or 1 small diced jalapeño

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter. If using a skillet, place it in the oven to warm—this helps create a crispy edge.
  2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and honey until smooth. Slowly whisk in the melted butter so it doesn’t scramble the eggs.
  4. Bring it together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry. Stir with a spatula just until combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. Do not overmix—a few small lumps are fine.
  5. Add any extras: If using cheese, jalapeño, or corn kernels, fold them in gently.
  6. Fill the pan: If using a hot skillet, carefully swirl in a small pat of butter to coat. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
  7. Bake: Bake for 18–24 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Finish with honey butter: While still warm, brush the top with a mixture of 1–2 tablespoons melted butter and 1–2 tablespoons honey. This step locks in moisture and adds shine.
  9. Rest and serve: Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra butter and a drizzle of honey if you like.