Golden, buttery, and irresistibly sweet — these Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are a delightful twist on classic cornbread that melts in your mouth with every bite. Perfectly portioned for snacking, brunch tables, or potluck parties, these little poppers bring together the rustic charm of cornbread and the indulgent richness of honey and butter. Their crisp caramelized tops paired with soft, fluffy interiors make them an instant crowd-pleaser.

These mini treats are baked in muffin tins for that ideal golden crust and then drizzled with warm honey butter to finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a comforting side for chili, or a unique idea for your next dinner party, this is a simple, easy recipe that delivers big flavor in small bites.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- Additional butter and honey for drizzling

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray to help achieve that golden crust. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined — do not overmix to keep the texture light and tender.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter evenly into the greased mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Glaze with Honey Butter
While the poppers are baking, melt a few tablespoons of butter and stir in some extra honey to taste. Once the poppers are done, let them cool for just a couple of minutes, then drizzle or brush generously with the honey butter glaze while they’re still warm.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve immediately while still warm and gooey on top. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they also reheat beautifully if you’re prepping in advance.
Estimated Nutrition
Per popper (based on a batch of 24 mini poppers):
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 130mg
Please note that values may vary slightly depending on the specific brands and measurements used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a subtle tang and tenderness. If needed, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.
2. Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?
Absolutely. Just increase the baking time to about 18–20 minutes, and keep an eye on them until golden and set.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, they reheat well! Store and reheat as described in the storage section above.
4. Are these gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
5. Can I add cheese or jalapeños?
Definitely! Stir in shredded cheddar or chopped jalapeños for a savory kick.
6. Do I need to use mini muffin tins?
Mini tins give that perfect bite-sized portion, but standard tins or even a baking dish will work — just adjust the baking time.
7. What’s the best way to drizzle honey butter?
Use a pastry brush or spoon while the poppers are still warm so it soaks in beautifully.
8. Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, it’s simple and fun! Kids can mix the batter and brush on the honey butter.

Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 mini poppers
Description
Golden, mini, and dripping with honeyed goodness, these Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are everything you love about cornbread — just in a bite-sized, poppable form. Whether you’re seeking a warm, cozy easy recipe to serve alongside chili, need some quick breakfast bites, or simply crave that nostalgic buttery corn flavor, this is your go-to treat.
With a tender crumb inside and a lightly crisped caramelized top, these easy dinner side ideas come together in one bowl and deliver maximum comfort with minimal effort. Ideal for busy weeknights, snack tables, or Sunday brunches, they hit that sweet-savory spot and keep people coming back for more.
Ingredients
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp honey
Additional butter and honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
- Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling 3/4 full.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- While baking, melt butter and mix with honey.
- Once baked, let cool slightly, then drizzle with honey butter.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast