Moist, golden, and sweetly satisfying, Fluffy Honey Cornbread is a comforting classic that pairs beautifully with savory meals or shines all on its own. With a tender crumb and irresistible honey-butter drizzle, this homemade version is far superior to any boxed mix. It strikes the perfect balance between light and rich, making it a staple side dish for holiday feasts, backyard barbecues, and cozy weeknight dinners alike.


Whether you’re dunking a warm square into a bowl of chili or topping it with whipped butter and a drizzle of honey for a quick snack, this cornbread delivers every time. Best of all, it uses pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in under an hour, making it a breeze even for beginners.
What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?
The texture of your cornbread depends greatly on the type of cornmeal you choose. For this fluffy version, fine or medium-ground yellow cornmeal is ideal. It yields a smoother, more cake-like texture while still offering that signature corn flavor. Avoid coarse-ground cornmeal if you’re looking for that tender bite.
Ingredients for the Fluffy Honey Cornbread
Yellow Cornmeal – The heart of any cornbread, it brings that classic rustic flavor and golden hue.
All-Purpose Flour – Balances the cornmeal, giving the bread a softer, lighter crumb.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents give the cornbread its lift and airy texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and brings balance to the sweetness.
Buttermilk – Provides moisture and a slight tang, helping create a tender crumb.
Honey – The star sweetener that gives the bread a warm, floral sweetness and that signature sticky topping when drizzled.
Melted Butter – Infuses the bread with rich, buttery flavor and helps it bake up moist.
Eggs – Bind the batter together and add structure and richness.
How To Make the Fluffy Honey Cornbread
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or cast iron skillet generously with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, honey, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Add That Final Honey Drizzle
Let the cornbread cool slightly, then drizzle with extra honey and top with a pat of butter before serving. Pure magic.

How to Serve and Store Fluffy Honey Cornbread
Serve this cornbread warm, straight from the oven, with a slab of butter and a good drizzle of honey. It’s an excellent side for hearty meals like chili, roast chicken, or barbecue ribs. To store, let it cool completely and wrap tightly in foil or an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What to Serve With Fluffy Honey Cornbread?
Classic Chili
This cornbread was made for dunking into a hearty, meaty bowl of chili.
Southern Fried Chicken
A crispy fried chicken meal just isn’t complete without a side of cornbread.
Creamy Soups
Try it with velvety options like butternut squash soup or loaded potato soup.
BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork
The sweetness of the cornbread cuts through the smoky, savory flavors beautifully.
Collard Greens
Balance the earthy bitterness of greens with a sweet, crumbly square.
Eggs and Bacon
Turn it into a Southern-inspired breakfast by serving with eggs, bacon, and a dash of hot sauce.
Want More Bread & Side Dish Ideas?
If you’re loving this fluffy honey cornbread, you might enjoy these comforting bites:
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for rich, melt-in-your-mouth potato bliss.
- Parmesan Baked Potatoes with a crispy crust you’ll crave.
- Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy as a savory topping for your cornbread.
- Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken perfect for a comfort food dinner.
- Cheeseburger Soup for a cozy pairing.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a handful of corn kernels? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Fluffy Honey Cornbread
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden, moist, and slightly sweet, this fluffy honey cornbread is a must-bake for every home cook who loves a cozy side dish. Whether you serve it with chili, BBQ, or creamy soups, this easy recipe is the perfect blend of cake-like softness and rustic corn flavor. It’s an ideal quick breakfast, delicious healthy snack, or comfort-filled addition to dinner ideas. Ready in under an hour using pantry staples, this cornbread recipe will quickly become a family favorite for weeknight meals or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup melted butter
2 large eggs
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease an 8-inch baking dish or skillet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, honey, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
5. Transfer batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly, drizzle with honey, and serve warm with butter.
Notes
Use fine or medium-ground cornmeal for the fluffiest texture.
Don’t overmix the batter—gentle folding keeps it tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: cornbread, honey cornbread, southern side, easy recipe, quick bread
