How to make Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

 Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are bite sized, crispy, and perfectly sweet and savory treats that combine the comforting flavors of traditional Southern cornbread with a hint of honey and butter. These poppers are perfect for parties, game days, or as a delightful appetizer at any gathering.

Below is a recipe to make these delicious little bites:

Ingredients:

For the Cornbread:

• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey (plus more for serving)

For Coating and Frying:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying

For Serving:

• Honey butter (recipe below)
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, grated cheddar cheese, or smoked paprika

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Cornbread Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and honey. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour the batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cornbread cool completely before cutting it into small cubes (about 1-inch squares).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Set up a breading station with the flour mixture in one bowl and a second bowl of water for dipping.

Step 3: Fry the Cornbread Poppers

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
2. Dip each cornbread cube first in the flour mixture, then in the water, and back into the flour mixture again to coat thoroughly.
3. Carefully place the coated cornbread cubes into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the fried poppers from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Honey Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons honey. Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Serve the honey butter alongside the fried cornbread poppers for dipping.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange the Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers on a platter and serve them warm with the honey butter for dipping. You can also sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese or chopped green onions on top for added flavor.

Tips:

• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the finished poppers.
• For an air fryer option, spray the coated cornbread cubes lightly with cooking spray and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers!