Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

If you’re looking for a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and sweet honey butter makes it perfect for cozy family dinners or a gathering with friends. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite chili or enjoy it as a snack, this recipe will surely become a staple in your home.

What I love most about this cornbread is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a warm, homemade treat ready in no time. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Whip up this cornbread in just 20 minutes of prep time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, spiced flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it all week long.
• Versatile side dish: Pair it with soups, stews, or serve it on its own with that luscious cinnamon honey butter.
• Comforting flavor: Enjoy the warm taste of pumpkin and spices that capture the essence of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, bringing out the best flavors in your cornbread. Gather these pantry staples and let’s get baking!

For the Cornbread

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• ½ cup milk (or plant-based milk if preferred)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs

For the Cinnamon Honey Butter

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with flavors and textures that suit your taste.

• Add some crunch: Toss in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a lovely texture!
• Spice it up: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder. This gives your cornbread a delightful kick.
• Make it savory: Substitute pumpkin with shredded zucchini for a different twist on cornbread.
• Sweeten further: Add in some chocolate chips or dried cranberries for an extra treat!

How to Make Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine your dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cornbread.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined. This step is crucial as it helps create that moist texture we all love in cornbread.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can result in a dense bread instead of that light and fluffy texture we desire.

Step 4: Bake

Grease a baking pan (an 8×8 inch works great!) and pour in your batter. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen; trust me!

Step 5: Make Cinnamon Honey Butter

While your cornbread bakes, let’s prepare the cinnamon honey butter! Simply mix softened butter with honey and cinnamon until smooth. This step adds an irresistible finishing touch to your warm cornbread.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, let your cornbread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with generous dollops of cinnamon honey butter on top. Enjoy each bite as you relish this seasonal delight!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

Making this delightful Pumpkin Cornbread is a breeze, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree – Fresh puree delivers a richer flavor compared to canned. If you have the time, roasting a small pumpkin and blending it into a smooth puree makes all the difference.
• Check your baking powder – Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. An easy way to test it is by adding a teaspoon to hot water; if it bubbles, it’s good to go!
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep your cornbread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that we want to avoid.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add more spices like ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor. This allows you to customize the warmth according to your taste preferences.
• Store properly – To keep your cornbread moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it or freeze slices wrapped in plastic.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

This Pumpkin Cornbread is delicious on its own but can be presented in various ways that enhance its flavors and visual appeal!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top adds crunch and complements the sweetness of the cornbread beautifully.
• Fresh herbs like sage or thyme – A few leaves provide a pop of color and an aromatic essence, elevating both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fall Salad with Apples and Candied Pecans – A light salad featuring crisp apples, sweet candied pecans, and mixed greens balances the richness of the cornbread perfectly.
• Butternut Squash Soup – This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with cornbread. The sweetness of butternut squash enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze – The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts combined with a tangy glaze creates a lovely contrast alongside the sweet cornbread.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and make for a colorful plate.

Serve your Pumpkin Cornbread warm with cinnamon honey butter slathered on top for an unforgettable autumn experience! Enjoy every bite as you embrace those cozy vibes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal addition to your weekly cooking routine. You can easily whip up a batch in advance, ensuring you always have a delicious side or snack ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cornbread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Slice the cornbread into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the cornbread and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

How do I make Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter moist?

To ensure your Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter remains moist, be careful not to overmix your batter and always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—moist crumbs should cling without being wet.

Can I add nuts or seeds to my Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

What pairs well with Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter?

This cornbread is versatile! It pairs beautifully with chili, soups, or as a standalone snack. The cinnamon honey butter adds a sweet touch that complements savory dishes well.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for my Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter?

Yes! If you have fresh pumpkin puree, you can absolutely use it. Just ensure it’s blended smoothly before adding it to your batter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter! It’s such a cozy recipe that captures the essence of fall and warms up any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside dinner or enjoying it as a tasty snack, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!