This delicious cornbread with whipped honey butter offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s moist and tender, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.
When shopping for this recipe, pay attention to buttermilk and unsweetened applesauce. These items may not be staples in every home, so make sure to pick them up at the supermarket.
Ingredients for Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter
Cornmeal: A coarse flour made from dried corn, essential for the texture and flavor of cornbread.
Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the cornbread.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cornbread.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cornbread rise.
Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to help the cornbread rise.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cornbread.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cornbread.
Unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a healthier substitute for oil, adding moisture.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness to the cornbread and whipped honey butter.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cornbread.
Eggs: Help to bind the ingredients together and add richness.
Salted butter: Used in the whipped honey butter for a savory balance.
Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the whipped honey butter.
One reader, Ettie Reardon says:
This cornbread and whipped honey butter recipe is fantastic! The cornbread is moist and flavorful, while the whipped honey butter adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a delightful combination that everyone loved. Highly recommend!
Techniques for Perfect Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter
How to whisk: Whisking involves using a whisk to blend ingredients together until smooth and well combined. How to rest batter: Allowing the batter to sit at room temperature for a specified time to let the ingredients meld and hydrate. How to preheat oven: Setting the oven to the desired temperature and allowing it to reach that temperature before baking. How to grease a baking dish: Applying a thin layer of butter or oil to the baking dish to prevent sticking. How to test for doneness: Inserting a toothpick into the center of the baked good to check if it comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
How To Make Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter
This whipped honey butter recipe will lighten up your traditional cornbread with sweetness and refreshing flavor. It is as good for the main dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupcornmeal
- 1cupbuttermilk
- 1cupall-purpose flour
- 1tspbaking powder
- ½tsp.baking soda
- ½tsp.salt
- ¼cupbuttermelted
- ⅔cupapplesauceunsweetened
- 2Tbsp.honey
- ⅓cupgranulated sugar
- 2largeeggs
For Whipped Honey Butter:
- ½cupbuttersalted, softened
- ⅓cuphoney
- ¼cuppowdered sugar
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal and buttermilk until well blended, allow to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, set aside.
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Add melted butter, applesauce, honey, and sugar to cornmeal mixture and whisk until well combined.
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Stir in eggs. Stir in dry ingredients and whisk just until combine and no longer lumpy. Pour mixture into a greased 8×8 dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with whipped honey butter.
Whipped Honey Butter:
-
In a mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, whip together all ingredients until light and fluffy for about 2 minutes.
Recipe Notes
For a spiced version, simply add in a bit of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg.
Nutrition
- Calories: 284.51kcal
- Fat: 12.82g
- Saturated Fat: 7.71g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.40g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.75g
- Carbohydrates: 39.70g
- Fiber: 0.97g
- Sugar: 21.13g
- Protein: 3.91g
- Cholesterol: 62.32mg
- Sodium: 233.79mg
- Calcium: 63.40mg
- Potassium: 92.41mg
- Iron: 1.35mg
- Vitamin A: 114.81µg
- Vitamin C: 3.14mg
Pro Tip for Making the Best Cornbread
When whisking together the cornmeal and buttermilk, ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps before letting it rest. This resting period allows the cornmeal to hydrate properly, resulting in a more tender cornbread.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Cornbread and Honey Butter
Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in advance and store in an airtight container.
Use a food processor: Quickly blend butter, applesauce, honey, and sugar together for a smoother mixture.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the cornmeal and buttermilk mixture rests.
Grease the baking dish: Prepare the 8x8 dish ahead of time to save a step later.
Use a stand mixer: Speed up the mixing process by using a stand mixer instead of hand whisking.
Substitute Ingredients For Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter Recipe
cornmeal - Substitute with polenta: Polenta is also made from ground corn and provides a similar texture and flavor to cornbread.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cornbread slightly denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 teaspoons of baking powder to replace 1 teaspoon of baking soda, but omit any acidic ingredients like buttermilk.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a slight coconut flavor.
unsweetened applesauce - Substitute with mashed bananas: Mashed bananas provide similar moisture and sweetness, though they will add a banana flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.
granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg to create a vegan alternative.
salted butter - Substitute with unsalted butter and a pinch of salt: Use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to control the sodium content.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended into a powder: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdered consistency.
Presenting Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the cornbread into elegant, bite-sized squares or rectangles. This allows for a refined presentation and easy tasting.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a small dollop of whipped honey butter on top. Add a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a touch of color and aroma.
Elegant plating: Arrange the cornbread pieces in a staggered or circular pattern on a large, white plate to create a visually appealing contrast. Use a squeeze bottle to artistically drizzle honey around the plate.
Texture contrast: Add a small side of honeycomb or a few candied pecans for an additional texture and flavor contrast. This elevates the dish and adds a touch of sophistication.
Color balance: Include a small, fresh fruit compote or a few berries on the side to introduce vibrant colors and a hint of acidity that complements the sweetness of the cornbread and whipped honey butter.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the butter used in the whipped honey butter is of the highest quality, such as European-style butter, to enhance the richness and flavor.
Attention to detail: Use a fine mesh sieve to lightly dust the cornbread with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a delicate touch and a hint of sweetness.
Serve warm: Ensure the cornbread is served slightly warm to enhance its texture and flavor. The warmth will also help the whipped honey butter to melt slightly, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
Essential Tools for Making Cornbread and Honey Butter
Mixing bowl: Used to combine and mix the ingredients for the cornbread batter.
Whisk: Essential for blending the cornmeal and buttermilk, as well as other wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the cornmeal, buttermilk, flour, applesauce, honey, and sugar.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
8x8 baking dish: The dish in which the cornbread batter will be poured and baked.
Oven: Preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to bake the cornbread.
Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of the cornbread by inserting it into the center.
Cooling rack: Allows the cornbread to cool slightly before slicing.
Knife: For slicing the cornbread once it has cooled.
Small bowl: Used to mix the ingredients for the whipped honey butter.
Electric mixer: Helps to whip the butter, honey, and powdered sugar together until fluffy.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl and transferring the whipped honey butter to a serving dish.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Cornbread
Let the cornbread cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent it from becoming soggy or developing condensation.
To store the cornbread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cornbread:
- Wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, remove the cornbread from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 2 hours, or microwave it on low power until defrosted.
Store the whipped honey butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
You can also freeze the whipped honey butter:
- Scoop the butter onto a piece of plastic wrap or wax paper, and roll it into a log shape.
- Wrap the log tightly in the plastic wrap or wax paper, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, remove the butter from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or at room temperature for about 2 hours, until softened.
How To Reheat Leftover Cornbread
To reheat leftover cornbread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cornbread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help prevent the cornbread from drying out while reheating.
Alternatively, you can reheat cornbread in the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the cornbread and microwave it in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. This method is quicker, but the cornbread may become slightly soggy.
For a crispy exterior, unwrap the cornbread after reheating in the oven and place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat individual slices of cornbread. Cut the cornbread into 1-inch thick slices, place them on the toaster oven rack, and toast for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
To reheat the whipped honey butter, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. If it's still too cold, microwave it in 5-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
If the whipped honey butter has separated or lost its fluffy texture, re-whip it using an electric mixer or whisk until it regains its smooth, creamy consistency.
For a warm, comforting treat, spread the reheated whipped honey butter on top of the warm cornbread. The combination of the soft, fluffy cornbread and the sweet, creamy butter will be irresistible.
Interesting Fact About Cornbread and Honey Butter
A unique aspect of this cornbread recipe is the use of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for some of the fat, making it a healthier option without compromising on moisture and flavor.
Is Making Cornbread at Home Cost-Effective?
This cornbread and whipped honey butter recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and flour are inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of applesauce and honey adds a touch of sweetness without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10 USD, making it an affordable and delightful treat.
Is Cornbread with Honey Butter Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cornbread and whipped honey butter recipe is a delightful treat, but it does have some elements that make it less than ideal from a health perspective. The use of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and a significant amount of butter contributes to the dish's high calorie and carbohydrate content. Additionally, the whipped honey butter, while undeniably delicious, adds more sugar and saturated fat to the mix.
However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe as well. The use of unsweetened applesauce helps to reduce the overall fat content, and the inclusion of cornmeal provides a good source of fiber. The recipe also uses a moderate amount of honey, which can be a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
- Reduce the amount of granulated sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar
- Use a lower fat milk alternative, such as almond milk or low-fat buttermilk, to reduce the overall fat content
- Experiment with reducing the amount of butter in both the cornbread and the whipped honey butter, or replace some of it with a healthier fat like olive oil or avocado
- Serve the cornbread with fresh fruit or a side salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals
By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy this comforting and tasty cornbread while still maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. Remember, moderation is key, and treating yourself to a delicious homemade dish like this one can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed in appropriate portions and alongside a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
Editor's Opinion on This Cornbread Recipe
This cornbread recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and texture, thanks to the combination of cornmeal, buttermilk, and applesauce. The inclusion of honey and granulated sugar adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the natural corn flavor. The whipped honey butter, with its blend of salted butter, honey, and powdered sugar, provides a luxurious, creamy complement to the cornbread. The resting period for the cornmeal and buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the baking powder and soda guarantee a light, fluffy texture. Overall, this recipe is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.
Enhance Your Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Cornbread and Whipped Honey Butter Recipe:
This cornbread recipe is a perfect blend of traditional and modern flavors, ensuring a moist and flavorful result every time. The use of buttermilk and unsweetened applesauce adds a unique twist, making it healthier without compromising on taste. Paired with the rich and creamy whipped honey butter, it creates an irresistible combination. Trust this recipe for its balance of sweetness and texture, and enjoy a delightful homemade treat.
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