Hot Honey Cornbread Madeleines Recipe Sweet and Easy

The first time I made these hot honey cornbread madeleines, I was amazed at how the combination of sweet and spicy danced on my taste buds. These little beauties are like cornbread’s fancy cousin—with their delicate scallop shape and a touch of heat from the hot honey glaze, they’re absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a fun twist on classic cornbread, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite.

What makes them even better? They’re ridiculously easy to whip up. If you’ve got a madeleine pan collecting dust in your cabinet, this is the recipe to pull it out for. Trust me, once you bite into one, with its golden edges and tender crumb, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make these sooner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These madeleines come together in just under 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or satisfying cravings.
• Unique Flavor Combo: Sweet, buttery cornbread with a spicy drizzle of hot honey creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From brunch spreads to backyard barbecues, these madeleines are a versatile crowd-pleaser.
• Fun Twist on a Classic: If you love cornbread but want to shake things up, these bite-sized treats deliver that familiar taste with a touch of elegance.
• A Crowd Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these madeleines—expect requests for seconds (or thirds!).

What sets this recipe apart is the hot honey glaze. It’s not a typical addition to cornbread but trust me—it’s a game-changer. The sweetness of the honey balances the spicy kick, while the tender crumb of the madeleines is the perfect vehicle for soaking up that sticky goodness. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s comforting yet bold, this one checks all the boxes.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Cornbread Madeleines:
  • 1 cup (120g) cornmeal (fine ground works best)
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) honey
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) buttermilk (adds moisture and tang)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Hot Honey Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
  • Pinch of salt

If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t worry—just mix 3/4 cup milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This DIY substitute works like a charm!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make these irresistible hot honey cornbread madeleines. Here’s the rundown:

• Madeleine Pan: Essential for achieving the classic scallop shape. If you don’t have one, you can use a mini muffin tin as an alternative—it won’t look the same, but it’ll taste just as good.
• Mixing Bowls: One for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To combine the ingredients smoothly.
• Small Saucepan: Perfect for making the hot honey glaze.
• Brush: For brushing the hot honey glaze over the madeleines.

If you’re investing in a madeleine pan, opt for a non-stick one—it makes releasing the delicate cakes much easier. Also, don’t forget to grease and flour the pan for extra insurance!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and lightly flour your madeleine pan to ensure the madeleines release easily after baking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking just until combined. Avoid overmixing—it’s okay if the batter looks slightly lumpy.
5. Fill the Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the madeleines cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, chili flakes, butter (if using), and a pinch of salt. Heat over low heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm. Remove from heat.
9. Glaze: Brush the hot honey glaze over the warm madeleines, making sure each one gets a generous coat.
10. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with extra hot honey drizzle on the side if desired.

Pro tip: If your madeleines stick to the pan, gently run a knife along the edges to loosen them before removing.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your hot honey cornbread madeleines turn out perfectly:

• Don’t Skip the Prepping: Grease and flour your madeleine pan thoroughly to avoid sticking.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the batter can lead to tough madeleines. Mix just until combined.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the chili flakes in the hot honey glaze—or omit them entirely for classic honey sweetness.
• Serve Warm: Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh and warm, right after glazing.

From my experience, using room-temperature ingredients makes a huge difference in texture. Cold eggs or buttermilk can cause the melted butter to clump, so let everything come to room temp before starting.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ideas:

• Cheesy Cornbread Madeleines: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a savory twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure it’s suitable for baking!
• Seasonal Flair: In the fall, add a teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced version.
• Milder Honey Glaze: Skip the chili flakes and add a splash of lemon juice to the honey for a tangy-sweet finish.

I once tried topping these with crumbled bacon and it was a hit—sweet, spicy, and smoky all in one bite!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to make the most of your hot honey cornbread madeleines:

• Serving: Serve them warm with extra hot honey on the side for dipping or drizzling. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
• Storage: Store leftover madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month.
• Reheating: Warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds to refresh their texture.

Fun fact: The flavors of the hot honey glaze deepen over time, so they’re even tastier the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional profile per madeleine (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 6g
• Sugar: 8g

Thanks to the cornmeal, these madeleines are rich in fiber and provide a touch of whole-grain goodness. The hot honey adds antioxidants from the chili flakes and honey itself. They’re indulgent yet balanced!

Conclusion

Hot honey cornbread madeleines are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread that’s sure to impress. With their sweet and spicy flavor, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these madeleines are bound to become a go-to in your kitchen.

I hope you love these as much as I do! If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts or see your creative twists. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, too!

Now go preheat that oven—you’re in for a sweet and spicy treat!

FAQs

Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a madeleine pan?

Yes, you can! The shape will be different, but the flavor and texture will remain delicious.

How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

The glaze has a gentle heat, but you can adjust the chili flakes to your preference. Use less for mild spice or more if you like it fiery.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the madeleines a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Brush the glaze on right before serving for the best results.

What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make these madeleines gluten-free.

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