Tennessee Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter
Introduction
This Tennessee-style Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter is a Southern classic with a grilled twist. Perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill, the cornbread gets crisp, golden edges while staying moist inside. Topped with rich honey butter, this dish is a sweet, savory treat that’s ideal for a weekend brunch or BBQ.
Ingredients
- 1 skillet-sized round of classic Southern cornbread (pre-baked and cooled)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter for grilling
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
- Light the paper and let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Butter
- In a small bowl, mix 4 tbsp softened butter with 2 tbsp honey and a pinch of sea salt until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Slice the Cornbread
- Slice your pre-baked cornbread into thick squares or wedges, about 1-inch thick, so they hold up well on the grill.
Step 4: Grill the Cornbread
- Place a small pat of butter on the flat top griddle near the center (for best searing heat).
- Place cornbread slices onto the buttered griddle surface.
- Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, watching carefully so it doesn’t dry out.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the grilled cornbread from the cooktop.
- Spread the honey butter generously over the warm grilled slices.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips
- Use butter instead of oil on the grill for added flavor and a golden sear.
- Grill near the center of the Arteflame cooktop for crisper results—the hotter zone enhances caramelization.
- Don’t over-grill; the goal is to toast the outside while keeping the interior soft.
- You can warm the honey butter slightly on the outer edge of the griddle if you want it more spreadable.
- This makes an excellent side dish for any grilled meat or brunch spread.
Variations
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Jalapeño Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar to the cornbread for a spicy variation before grilling.
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Maple Bacon Butter: Swap the honey butter for a maple butter mixed with finely chopped crispy bacon.
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Herbed Cornbread: Stir in chopped rosemary or thyme into the cornbread before grilling for earthy notes.
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Sweet Corn & Scallion: Add grilled corn kernels and diced scallions on top after grilling for added texture and flavor.
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Spicy Cinnamon Honey Butter: Add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne to the honey butter for a spiced sweet-heat combo.
Conclusion
This Tennessee Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter is your new go-to comfort food side dish. Easy to grill, quick to serve, and always crowd-pleasing, it’s proof that the Arteflame grill isn’t just for meats—it's for memorable meals. Try it with BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, or your favorite grilled vegetables.
Best Pairings
- Grilled Tennessee BBQ Ribs
- Smoked pulled pork
- Heirloom tomato salad
- Peach iced tea or a crisp wheat beer
- Grilled peaches and vanilla bean ice cream for dessert