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Crispy Brown Butter Cornbread Recipe with Honey Drizzle

crispy brown butter cornbread - featured image

A quick and easy cornbread with a crispy golden crust, nutty brown butter flavor, and a sweet honey drizzle that makes it a comforting and memorable side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind preferred for texture)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar as a substitute)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (about 1 stick), browned gently until golden and nutty
  • 1/4 cup good-quality honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven while it heats.
  2. Brown the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until golden with a nutty aroma and brown specks appear. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (3–5 minutes).
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  4. In another bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together. Slowly pour in the browned butter, stirring continuously.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
  6. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
  7. Pour the batter into the hot skillet and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for about 5 minutes.
  10. Warm the honey slightly if thick, then drizzle generously over the warm cornbread before serving.

Notes

Watch the butter closely when browning to avoid burning; remove as soon as golden flecks and nutty aroma appear. Preheat the skillet for crispy edges. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cornbread tender. Drizzle honey while cornbread is warm for best flavor. Use a serrated knife to slice to keep crust intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread, brown butter, honey drizzle, crispy cornbread, easy cornbread recipe, southern cornbread, comfort food