Honey Butter Cornbread (Moist, Sweet & Southern-Style)

Introduction

Honey Butter Cornbread is a classic comfort food that brings together the rustic charm of traditional cornbread with a soft, moist texture and a gentle sweetness from real honey. Golden on the outside and tender on the inside, this cornbread is rich without being heavy and sweet without being overpowering—making it the perfect balance for both savory and sweet pairings.

What makes Honey Butter Cornbread truly special is its flavor depth. Butter adds richness, honey provides natural sweetness, and cornmeal delivers that signature hearty texture. Unlike dry or crumbly cornbread, this version stays moist for days and melts in your mouth with every bite.

This cornbread is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with chili, soups, BBQ, fried chicken, collard greens, and holiday meals. It’s also delicious served warm on its own with an extra pat of honey butter on top. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe fits right in.

If you’re searching for a cornbread recipe that’s soft, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser, Honey Butter Cornbread is a must-have staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup yellow cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

⅓ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup milk or buttermilk

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

⅓ cup honey

Optional Honey Butter Topping

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons honey

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and honey until smooth and fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be smooth but thick.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Variations

Skillet Cornbread: Bake in a preheated cast-iron skillet for crispy edges.

Honey Jalapeño Cornbread: Add diced jalapeños for a sweet-heat twist.

Honey Cornbread Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins and bake 14–16 minutes.

Extra Moist Version: Use buttermilk instead of regular milk.

Cheddar Honey Cornbread: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese.

Cooking Notes

Do not overbake—cornbread dries out quickly.

Honey sweetness intensifies slightly as it cools.

Let rest before slicing for best texture.

Use real honey for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey Butter Cornbread warm with chili, soups, BBQ, roasted meats, or holiday meals. It’s also delicious topped with whipped honey butter, jam, or served as a breakfast side with eggs.

Tips

Warm cornbread before serving for best flavor.

Brush the top with melted butter right after baking.

Store leftovers tightly wrapped to retain moisture.

Reheat gently to avoid drying.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 310

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Is Honey Butter Cornbread sweet?
It’s lightly sweet—perfectly balanced, not dessert-like.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, bake ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze cornbread?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the best pan to use?
A cast-iron skillet gives the best crust, but any baking dish works.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Cornbread is a timeless, comforting recipe that delivers moist texture, rich buttery flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness from honey. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of side dish that belongs on every table—from casual dinners to holiday feasts. Once you bake it, this cornbread is sure to become a repeat favorite you’ll come back to again and again.

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