Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter Recipe

If you’re anything like me, a warm, cozy comfort food can brighten any day, and that’s exactly what this Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter delivers. The tender, moist cornbread packed with autumn spices pairs beautifully with a luscious, sweet butter that melts into every crumb. It’s a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or to bring a festive twist to your family meal. Trust me, once you taste this Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter, it’s going to become your next favorite go-to for seasonal celebrations or simple weeknight comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a surprisingly simple way, balancing flavors and textures that make the cornbread both rich and fragrant. Each ingredient plays a vital role from the earthy warmth of spices to the creamy punch of sour cream, ensuring this Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter is nothing short of magical.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cornbread, helping it hold together perfectly.
• Cornmeal: Gives traditional cornbread its signature texture and slightly gritty bite.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Both act as leavening agents, making the bread light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor by balancing sweetness and spices.
• Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves: These warm spices bring cozy autumn vibes.
• Light brown sugar: Adds subtle molasses notes and sweetness.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture.
• Canned pumpkin: The star ingredient, adding moisture, color, and that comforting pumpkin flavor.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cornbread tender and adds slight tanginess.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together while contributing to a soft crumb.
• Salted butter (for the cinnamon honey butter): Brings creamy richness and balances the sweet.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and sticky texture.
• Powdered sugar: Adds smoothness and a touch of sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (for the butter): Infuses the butter with warm, aromatic spice.

How to Make Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Proper prep ensures your cornbread releases easily, giving you perfect squares to serve later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This step is key for evenly distributing the leaveners and spices, which guarantees every bite has a burst of warm flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, break up the brown sugar with your fingertips until it’s smooth, then whisk in the melted butter and canned pumpkin until fully incorporated. Next, stir in the sour cream and eggs, mixing until the batter is smooth and ready to meet the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the pumpkin mixture. Using a rubber spatula, fold gently until just combined to avoid overmixing—which can make the bread tough—so your Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter stays tender.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack to set up before slicing for the best texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Butter

While the cornbread bakes or cools, whip the salted butter in a mixing bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add honey, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon, mixing on low speed to combine. Then turn the speed up to high and whip for 2 to 3 minutes until the butter becomes light, fluffy, and heavenly—exactly what makes the Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter

Garnishes

Top your Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon powder. A few raw pumpkin seeds can add a lovely crunch and enhance the fall theme, making each slice even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like chili, roasted turkey, or a hearty stew. The cinnamon honey butter complements the spicy or earthy flavors, turning an everyday meal into something special with just a spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive gatherings, consider serving pumpkin cornbread in mini cast-iron skillets for individual portions. Or stack small squares on a wooden board with bowls of cinnamon honey butter for guests to help themselves, turning a simple dish into a charming centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap any leftover cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread moist without drying out or losing its tender crumb.

Freezing

You can freeze the cornbread for up to two months. Wrap it well in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve its softness.

Reheating

To refresh your cornbread, warm it in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave individual slices for 20 to 30 seconds. Add a generous dollop of homemade cinnamon honey butter right before serving for that lovely gooey touch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. Measure to match the same amount as canned pumpkin to keep texture consistent.

Is this cornbread gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking if needed.

Can I make the cinnamon honey butter ahead of time?

Yes! The butter can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Just bring it to room temperature and whip again before serving.

What can I do if I don’t have a mixer for the butter?

You can whisk the butter by hand, though it will require more effort. Make sure your butter is very soft to help it combine smoothly with the honey and powdered sugar.

How spicy is the Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter?

The spice blend creates a gentle warmth rather than heat. It’s aromatic and cozy, perfect for fall without being overpowering for kids or those sensitive to strong spice.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter that brings warmth and joy to any table. The marriage of tender, spiced cornbread with that silky, sweet butter topping is just too good to miss out on. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own little slice of autumn happiness.

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