As the aroma of freshly baked bread fills my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to my grandmother’s cozy home, where her cornbread was a staple of Sunday dinners. Today, I’m excited to share my take on her classic recipe—the Hot Honey Southern Cornbread. This delightful twist brings a touch of sweetness and a hint of heat, making it the perfect companion for chili, barbecued meats, or even on its own with a pat of butter.
One evening, feeling adventurous and a bit bored with the usual dinner options, I decided to experiment with flavors and discovered hot honey. The contrast of its spiciness perfectly complements the rich, buttery cornbread. With just a few simple ingredients and a total baking time of around 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting side dish that will wow your family and friends. So, grab your cast iron skillet, and let’s bake some delicious memories together!
Why is Hot Honey Southern Cornbread a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: This cornbread isn’t your average recipe; the addition of hot honey infuses it with an exciting sweet and spicy twist that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick & Easy: In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or surprise guests.
Perfect Pairing: Versatile enough to complement chili, barbecued meats, or simply enjoyed with butter, it appeals to everyone at the table.
Beautifully Buttery: The melted butter not only adds richness but also ensures a moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Crowd-Pleaser: Get ready for rave reviews—this is a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
Homemade Comfort: Every bite transports you back to comforting family gatherings, making it more than just a recipe—it’s a delicious memory in the making.
Hot Honey Southern Cornbread Ingredients
For the Batter
• Yellow cornmeal – gives the cornbread its signature texture and flavor.
• All-purpose flour – helps to create a light and fluffy consistency.
• Baking powder – ensures the cornbread rises beautifully as it bakes.
• Organic cane sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat from the hot honey.
• Sea salt – enhances all the flavors and brings them together.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients and contribute to the cornbread’s richness.
• Unsalted butter – adds moisture and a lovely buttery flavor that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
• Hot honey – the star ingredient that brings an exciting sweet and spicy kick to your cornbread.
• Almond milk – keeps it dairy-free while adding moisture; feel free to use regular milk if desired.
• Additional almond milk – use this if your batter seems too thick for pouring.
With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a warm, comforting dish that will become a staple in your home!
How to Make Hot Honey Southern Cornbread
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Start by generously greasing your favorite oven-safe cast iron skillet (or two 6” mini skillets). This ensures the cornbread won’t stick and will have a lovely golden crust.
-
Whisk together the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, organic cane sugar, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk until everything is evenly blended, creating a lovely base for your cornbread.
-
Mix in the wet ingredients. Add the almond milk, hot honey, eggs, and melted unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Stir with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well combined and the batter is thick but smooth.
-
Scoop the batter into your prepared skillet(s). Pour it in and gently spread it out to ensure even baking. The thickness should be consistent across the surface for that perfect bake.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes. Slide your skillet(s) into the oven and wait patiently while your kitchen fills with a delicious aroma. It’s ready when the center is fully cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
Cool before serving. Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting period will enhance the flavors and make it easier to slice. Add a slice of butter for an extra touch before serving!
Optional: Drizzle additional hot honey on top for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Southern Cornbread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients (yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and sea salt) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (almond milk, hot honey, eggs, and melted butter) the night before, refrigerating them overnight. When you’re ready to bake, combine the wet and dry mixtures, scoop the batter into your prepared skillet(s), and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a heartwarming dish ready with minimal effort on busy evenings, preserving the delightful flavors just as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Southern Cornbread
Room Temperature: Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, the cornbread can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze pieces of hot honey southern cornbread. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the frozen cornbread in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy it with a drizzle of hot honey for extra flavor!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Southern Cornbread
-
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fine yellow cornmeal and fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your Hot Honey Southern Cornbread.
-
Check Your Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the correct temperature, preventing undercooked or burnt cornbread.
-
Mix Wisely: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding wet ingredients to keep your cornbread light and fluffy.
-
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If not, bake a few more minutes while keeping an eye on the edges.
-
Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of hot honey to your taste—more for spicy lovers, less for those who prefer a milder cornbread.
-
Storage Tips: Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for later enjoyment!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
Imagine a cozy gathering where your friends and family savor each bite of this delightful cornbread, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
-
Chili: The spicy, comforting flavors of chili perfectly complement the sweetness of the cornbread, creating a satisfying balance that warms the soul.
-
Barbecued Ribs: The sweet and spicy notes of the cornbread enhance the smoky richness of barbecued ribs, making for a match made in heaven.
-
Collard Greens: These tender greens add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the cornbread’s buttery texture, making each bite feel like a celebration of Southern cuisine.
-
Fried Chicken: The crunchy, savory chicken pairs beautifully with the moist cornbread, bringing together two classic comfort foods that your guests will love.
-
Savory Quiche: A slice of hearty quiche packed with vegetables and cheese brings an added depth, while the cornbread adds a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful brunch spread.
-
Peach or Berry Crisp: For dessert, a sweet crisp accentuates the honey notes in the cornbread. Serve warm with ice cream for a delicious finish to your meal.
-
Sweet Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing sweet iced tea is the perfect drink to balance the flavors, complementing both spicy curries and buttery cornbread.
-
Crisp Garden Salad: A salad tossed with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience with a refreshing touch.
-
Hot Honey Drizzle: Don’t forget to serve extra hot honey on the side; a drizzle can elevate any dish while bringing a sweet heat that ties everything together.
Hot Honey Southern Cornbread Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful cornbread recipe to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously adaptable option.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños into the batter to boost the spice level and add some lovely texture.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a savory twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an aromatic flavor experience.
- Honey Variation: Swap hot honey for regular honey or maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness profile.
- Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of almond milk for a subtle tropical flavor and extra richness.
- Corn Variation: Stir in 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels for added sweetness and great texture in every bite.
- Savory Version: Mix in cooked, crumbled sausage for a heartier cornbread that can shine as a breakfast dish.
With these variations, you can easily make the Hot Honey Southern Cornbread your own! Enjoy the journey of creating this comforting treat.
Hot Honey Southern Cornbread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cornmeal for my Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
Absolutely! When selecting cornmeal, opt for a finely ground yellow cornmeal for the best texture and flavor. Look for brands that list minimal additives; organic, if possible, offers a richer taste. Check the expiration date, and avoid cornmeal with dark spots, which may indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
You can keep your cornbread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just remember, longer storage might affect its moistness, so enjoy it while you can!
Can I freeze Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, slice the cornbread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then, place all slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you keep out excess air. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my cornbread comes out dense?
Very common! If your cornbread is dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter once you add the wet ingredients. Gently folding them together ensures you retain a light, airy texture. Also, verify your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents could lead to flat cornbread.
Are there any dietary considerations with Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
Yes, it’s good to note that this recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour and may not be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using gluten-free flour blends. Additionally, the hot honey can be a concern for those avoiding spicy foods or particular allergens, so always choose a honey brand that suits your dietary needs.
Can I adjust the level of spice in my Hot Honey Southern Cornbread?
The more the merrier! You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of hot honey. For a milder version, start with less honey and increase gradually until you find your perfect balance of sweetness and heat. If you want to kick it up a notch, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños into the batter for an extra kick!
Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Southern Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease your cast iron skillet(s).
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix in the wet ingredients: almond milk, hot honey, eggs, and melted butter, until smooth.
- Scoop the batter into the skillet(s) and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Optionally drizzle with hot honey.