Description
Southern Cornbread Poppers are crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside. These bite-sized snacks are packed with cornmeal, fresh corn, sharp cheddar, and a touch of heat, perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or comforting side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely diced or a few dashes of hot sauce
- 1 cup panko or fine breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in corn, cheese, chives, and optional jalapeño or hot sauce.
- Scoop mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Chill for 20–30 minutes.
- Roll chilled balls in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry poppers in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
- Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dip.