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Jessica T. Brown

Cornbread with Honey Butter

A moist, tender cornbread sweetened with honey and enriched with creamed corn, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser perfect for everyday meals or gatherings. Quick to make, easy to store, and loaded with comfort
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 33 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients:
  • 2 cups yellow cornmeal
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 can 15 oz creamed corn
  • 2/3 cup vegetable oil
Honey Butter Glaze:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons honey

Equipment

  • 1 13x9 inch Glass Baking Dish or Cast Iron Skillet
  • 2 Mixing Bowls (medium and large)
  • 1 Whisk or Spoon (for blending batter)
  • 1 Saucepan or Microwave-Safe Bowl (for honey butter)
  • 1 Silicone Pastry Brush (for glazing)
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons Set

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Honey Butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, stir in the honey until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and set aside. (Alternatively, microwave the butter and honey in a heat-safe bowl in 15-second intervals until melted and combined.)
  2. Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish or a large cast iron skillet with oil or non-stick spray. This ensures easy removal and gives the cornbread a lightly crisp edge.
  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents.
  4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, beat the eggs. Add in the milk, creamed corn, and vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture is uniform and smooth.
  5. Bring the Batter Together: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the well. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — the batter should be slightly lumpy but cohesive.
  6. Bake the Cornbread: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan or skillet. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Glaze and Finish Baking: About 20 minutes into baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven and brush a generous layer of the prepared honey butter over the top. Return it to the oven to finish baking, allowing the glaze to seep in and form a subtle golden crust.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra honey butter drizzled on top for an irresistible finish.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
  • Freezing Tip: Cornbread freezes well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.
  • Pan Substitutions: A cast iron skillet gives a crispier edge, while a glass or ceramic baking dish yields a soft, uniform bake.
  • Sweetness Level: If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to ¾ cup.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or oat milk and a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.