Hot Honey Cornbread: A Sweet and Spicy Twist on a Classic Recipe

Hot Honey Cornbread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. As someone who has always cherished the comforting aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through the kitchen, I can assure you that this recipe elevates the traditional dish to new heights. Originating from Southern cuisine, cornbread has long been a staple at family gatherings and festive occasions, often served alongside hearty stews and barbecues. The addition of hot honey not only enhances the flavor but also adds a unique kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.

People adore Hot Honey Cornbread for its perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The texture is wonderfully moist and crumbly, making it an ideal companion for savory dishes or simply enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)

Preparing the Batter

Let’s get started on our delicious Hot Honey Cornbread! First, I like to gather all my ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Once everything is ready, we can dive right into the mixing.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This step is crucial as it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might cook the eggs! If you’re using hot honey, you can add it to this mixture as well. If you prefer to drizzle it on top later, you can wait until the cornbread is baked.
3. Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense cornbread, and we want it to be light and fluffy!
4. If you’re adding cheese and jalapeños, fold them in at this stage. The cheese adds a wonderful richness, and the jalapeños give it that extra kick!

Preparing the Baking Dish

While the batter is resting for a few minutes, it’s time to prepare our baking dish. I usually opt for a cast-iron skillet for that perfect crust, but you can use an 8×8 inch baking pan or a 9-inch round cake pan if you prefer.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for cornbread, allowing it to rise beautifully and develop a golden crust.
2. Grease your skillet or baking pan with a little butter or cooking spray. If you want an extra crispy edge, you can add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and place it in the oven for a few minutes to heat up before pouring in the batter.

Cooking Process

Now that our batter is ready and our baking dish is prepped, it’s time to bake!

1. Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared skillet or baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring it reaches the corners.
2. Place the skillet or pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of the baking cornbread will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste!
3. Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

Assembling and Serving

Now comes the fun part—serving our Hot Honey Cornbread! This cornbread is perfect as a side dish or even as a snack on its own.

1. After the cornbread has cooled slightly, carefully remove it from the skillet or pan. If you used a cast-iron skillet, you can serve it directly from there for a rustic presentation.
2. Slice the cornbread into squares or wedges, depending on your preference. I like to serve it warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.
3. If you didn’t add the hot honey to the batter, now is the time to drizzle it

Conclusion:

In summary, this Hot Honey Cornbread recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cornbread game. The perfect balance of sweet and spicy, it pairs beautifully with savory dishes like chili, barbecued meats, or even a hearty vegetable stew. You can also enjoy it as a delightful breakfast treat, slathered with butter or drizzled with more hot honey for an extra kick. Feel free to get creative with variations! You might consider adding jalapeños for an extra layer of heat, or incorporating cheese for a savory twist. You could even experiment with different types of honey to find your perfect flavor profile. I encourage you to give this Hot Honey Cornbread a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, I’m confident that this cornbread will become a favorite in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

Print