How to Bake the Perfect Honey Butter Cornbread
Baking the perfect honey butter cornbread combines comforting flavors with an easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you're serving it as a side dish for your family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this cornbread is sure to impress. Follow these steps for a moist, flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Greasing a 9-inch square baking pan or cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray will ensure your cornbread releases easily.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first will help evenly distribute the leavening agent.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, honey, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined. The honey adds sweetness while the melted butter enhances the cornbread's richness.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to dense cornbread.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan or skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Honey Butter Topping
For that irresistible honey butter finish, combine 1/4 cup softened butter with 2 tablespoons of honey in a small bowl. Mix well and spread over the warm cornbread right out of the oven for a sweet glaze.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the cornbread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra honey butter if desired. This honey butter cornbread is perfect on its own or as a side dish with chili, barbecue, or soup.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- For an extra touch, add corn kernels, jalapeños, or cheese to the batter.
- If you like a sweeter cornbread, feel free to increase the sugar or honey.
Whether it's for a cozy family gathering or a holiday feast, mastering the art of honey butter cornbread will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your baking!