Honey Butter Cornbread: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Honey Butter Cornbread: A Sweet & Savory Delight

This Honey Butter Cornbread is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a rich, moist texture that will make it the highlight of any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty stew or enjoying it on its own with a dollop of honey butter, this cornbread is sure to please. The addition of honey butter gives it that extra touch of sweetness that takes this cornbread to the next level.

Why Make This Recipe

Flavorful and Comforting

The sweet honey butter perfectly complements the rich, golden cornbread. The combination of creamed corn and vegetable oil gives this cornbread a moist, tender texture, while the honey butter adds an irresistible sweetness that everyone will love.

Perfect for Gatherings

This cornbread is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or any gathering where you need a comforting side dish. The large batch makes it easy to serve a crowd, and it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to chili and soups.

Quick and Easy

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a baking time of around 30 minutes, this recipe comes together in no time. It’s the perfect side dish when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and homemade.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 2 cups yellow cornmeal: The base of the cornbread. You can also use white cornmeal if you prefer, but yellow gives it a sweeter flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Helps the cornbread rise and gives it structure. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture.
• 1 can creamed corn (15 oz): Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the cornbread. You can substitute with fresh corn kernels or frozen corn if preferred.
• 2 tablespoons baking powder: Helps the cornbread rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the cornbread. Adjust according to your taste.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cornbread. You can use brown sugar for a richer flavor or a sugar substitute for a healthier version.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 2 cups milk: Adds moisture and helps create the right consistency for the batter. You can use almond milk or any dairy-free milk as an alternative.
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cornbread stays moist. You can use melted butter or olive oil as a substitute.

Honey Butter:

• 4 tbsp honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a glossy, flavorful butter.
• 4 tbsp butter: For richness and a creamy texture in the honey butter. You can use unsalted butter for more control over the saltiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the honey butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Slowly add the honey, stirring to combine. Remove from heat. You can also microwave the butter and honey together in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds, stirring until melted and well mixed.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 13×9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, creamed corn, vegetable oil, and eggs until well blended.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until fully blended. The batter should be thick and smooth.
6. Bake the cornbread: Pour the batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Add the honey butter: After 20 minutes of baking, brush a layer of the honey butter over the top of the cornbread. Continue baking until golden brown and fully cooked.
8. Rest before serving: Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with more honey butter on the side.

How to Serve Honey Butter Cornbread

This cornbread is best served warm, fresh out of the oven, with a generous spread of honey butter on top. It’s the perfect side for comfort foods like chili, roasted meats, or a hearty stew. You can also enjoy it on its own with a cup of tea or coffee as a sweet treat.

How to Store Honey Butter Cornbread

Once the cornbread has cooled, wrap it in an airtight container or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It will last for up to 3 days at room temperature. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If you have leftover honey butter, store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat before serving.

Pro Tips from the Chef

1. Don’t overmix the batter: Stir the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense cornbread.
2. Use a cast-iron skillet: If you have one, use a cast-iron skillet for a crisp, golden crust.
3. Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
4. Add extras: Feel free to add in extras like jalapeños, cheese, or bacon bits to customize the flavor of your cornbread.
5. Make it ahead: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

Variations

• Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Add shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy, cheesy version.
• Herb-Infused Cornbread: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for a savory twist.
• Vegan Cornbread: Use almond milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

FAQs

Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute the regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice.

How can I make the cornbread extra moist?
For a more moist cornbread, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or 1/4 cup of sour cream to the wet ingredients.

Conclusion

This Honey Butter Cornbread is an irresistible, sweet, and savory side dish that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this cornbread will become your go-to recipe. With its moist texture and the delicious drizzle of honey butter, it’s the perfect combination of flavors that everyone will love!