Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I poured the vibrant yellow cornmeal into the bowl, I couldn’t help but smile at the memories of family gatherings and wholesome meals shared. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Thick and Chewy Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that perfectly captures the essence of American cuisine. The beauty of these cookies lies not just in their thick, chewy texture reminiscent of cornbread, but in the luscious honey buttercream frosting that elevates them to something truly special. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion—especially those festive gatherings where you’re looking to impress. Curious about how to make these irresistible treats? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try? Delightful Texture: Their thick and chewy nature echoes the beloved charm of cornbread. Irresistible Frosting: The honey buttercream adds a luscious sweetness that makes every bite unforgettable. Quick to Prepare: These cookies come together in no time, perfect for spontaneous gatherings—or just satisfying your sweet tooth! Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet and savory notes is unlike any traditional dessert, making them a standout treat. Versatile Treat: Pair them with other festive delights, like Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, for a memorable dessert table at your next celebration. Enduring Appeal: Whether for Thanksgiving or a casual get-together, they’re sure to impress both friends and family! Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Ingredients For the Cookies • Cornmeal – Provides the characteristic cornbread flavor and texture; use extra for rolling if desired. • All-purpose Flour – Forms the primary structure of cookies; substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. • Baking Powder – Creates lift and lightness in the cookie; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. • Cornstarch – Contributes to the softness and chewiness; can be replaced with arrowroot starch if necessary. • Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and boosts flavor; regular salt can be used if kosher is not on hand. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. • Light Brown Sugar – Imparts moisture and a gentle caramel flavor; swap with dark brown sugar for a bolder taste. • Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie structure. • Honey – A sweetener that perfectly complements the cornbread flavor; maple syrup is an excellent substitute. • Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture to the mixture. • Vanilla Extract – Introduces depth of flavor; almond extract can make for an exciting twist. For the Honey Buttercream • Unsalted Butter – The base of the frosting that adds a creamy richness; softened for easy blending. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture; adjust the amount for desired sweetness. • Honey – Ties in with the cookies’ flavors, enhancing the sweetness; feel free to alter the ratio based on preference. • Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the frosting, perfectly complementing the cookies’ flavors. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste of the frosting with a touch of classic flavor. For Garnish • Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle that enhances the flavor of both the frosting and cookies, adding an irresistible contrast. These Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting are a delightful marriage of flavors and textures, perfect for sweetening any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Step 1: Prepare Ingredients Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, honey, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Ensure no streaks of egg remain, as this will help achieve a tender texture in your Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt. This step is crucial to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and salt throughout your cookie dough. Set aside for the next stage, while enjoying the delightful aroma of the cornmeal. Step 4: Form Dough Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring on low speed until a thick and cohesive dough forms. This should take about 1-2 minutes. If you find the dough too crumbly, don’t hesitate to mix it by hand, making sure every bit of flour is incorporated as you work. Step 5: Shape Cookies Using a standard ¼ cup measuring scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in additional cornmeal for a delightful texture, then flatten them slightly with your palm. Arrange the shaped cookies on your lined baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Step 6: Bake Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake your Cornbread Cookies for 11-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and set. Keep a close watch; the centers will look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking for a chewy texture. Step 7: Cool Cookies Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital as it prepares them for the luscious honey buttercream frosting. Step 8: Prepare Buttercream While your cookies cool, make the honey buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed for the perfect spreadable consistency. Step 9: Frost Cookies Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost the tops with the honey buttercream, using either a knife or a piping bag for an elegant touch. For an extra flourish, drizzle a bit of honey over each frosted cookie and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that sweet-salty contrast. Storage Tips for Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewy texture. Fridge: If you’re in a humid environment, consider refrigerating the cookies in a sealed container for up to a week, but remember they may lose some softness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw on the counter before serving to enjoy their original deliciousness. Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, gently reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds on medium power before enjoying your Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting. Make Ahead Options These Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want even more convenience, you can shape the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 2 months—just remember to place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, you can simply pull them out, let them thaw for about 30 minutes, and bake as instructed. For the frosting, make it ahead as well and store it in the refrigerator, bringing it back to room temperature before spreading it on your cooled cookies. This way, your cookies will still taste just as delicious, providing you with a delightful, homemade treat with minimal effort on busy days! What to Serve with Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting There’s something magical about creating a memorable meal around these delightful cookies that evokes the warmth of family gatherings. Creamy Pumpkin Soup: This velvety soup provides a rich, warming contrast to the sweet cookies, making each bite feel like a comforting hug. Southern Collard Greens: Their earthy flavor beautifully complements the sweetness of the cornbread cookies, bringing a touch of savory to your dessert table. Maple Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The sweet, caramelized notes in these sprouts mirror the honey in your cookies while adding a satisfying crunch. Classic Buttermilk Biscuits: Serve these flaky delights alongside, as their buttery essence provides balance against the rich frosting. Warm Spiced Apple Cider: This aromatic drink enhances the flavors of the cookies while bringing warmth to your gathering. Pecan Pie: A sweet and nutty contrast, this classic dessert will immerse your guests in a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy treat alongside the cookies creates an indulgent dessert experience that enhances every bite. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling chocolate over cookies introduces another layer of sweetness that pairs especially well with the frosting. Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream: The comforting warmth of hot chocolate elevates the sweet treats, inviting cozy moments around the table. Fresh Fruit Salad: Add a refreshing twist with a fruity mix, balancing the sweetness while providing a burst of freshness to each bite. Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Variations Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists for the perfect cookie experience! Maple Syrup: Swap the honey in the frosting for maple syrup to introduce a cozy, autumnal flavor. Vegetable Oil: Replace half of the butter with vegetable oil for a lighter texture that still feels indulgent. Mix-Ins: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful crunch or a sweet surprise in every bite. Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet frosting. Citrus Zest: Enhance the honey buttercream with fresh lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist that brightens the cookies. Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract to create a unique flavor that complements the cornbread taste wonderfully. Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosted cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that’s simply divine. These variations open the door to endless possibilities! Don’t be afraid to experiment just like I do when I whip up my family’s favorites, like these savory Garlic Butter Shrimp or the sweet indulgence of a Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. Each twist invites a personal touch, making your cornbread cookies uniquely yours! Expert Tips for Cornbread Cookies Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial—fluff, scoop, and level the flour instead of scooping directly to avoid dense cookies. Cool Completely: Let cookies cool fully before frosting to ensure the honey butter frosting maintains its shape and doesn’t melt. Storage Secrets: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days; for frosted cookies, layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey in the buttercream to suit your taste; balancing sweetness enhances the enjoyment of these cornbread cookies. Bake Time Alert: Keep an eye on the baking time; slightly underbaking will result in a chewier texture, which is perfect for these cookies! Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right cornmeal for these cookies? Absolutely! Opt for a medium to coarse grind for the best texture that mimics traditional cornbread. Look for brands that specifically state “yellow cornmeal” as this will give your cookies that vibrant color and authentic flavor. Avoid instant cornmeal, as it may affect the texture. How should I store leftover cookies? Store your Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For frosted cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness, although be aware they may lose some chewiness. Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can! To freeze, let the unfrosted cookies cool completely, then place them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper, separating the layers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw on the counter for a couple of hours—no need to reheat! What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry? No worries! If the dough feels crumbly, gradually mix in a teaspoon of milk or water to help bind it together. You can also give it a little knead with your hands to incorporate the dry bits left in the bowl. Just be cautious not to overwork the dough to maintain that chewy texture! Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies? Yes! As this recipe doesn’t include any nuts, it’s perfect for those with nut allergies. Always double-check your ingredients to ensure they are nut-free, especially with brands of butter and flour, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur. How can I modify the sweetness of the frosting? Very easily! If you find the honey buttercream too sweet for your taste, try reducing the powdered sugar by 1/4 cup and increasing the honey slightly to balance the flavors. Remember, you can always taste the frosting as you go, adjusting until it suits your palate perfectly! Chewy Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting Delight Delightful Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting, a unique twist on a classic dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 14 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 34 minutes mins Servings: 12 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies1 cup Cornmeal Use extra for rolling if desired1 cup All-purpose Flour Substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste1 tbsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for the best results1 tbsp Cornstarch Can be replaced with arrowroot starch if necessary1/2 tsp Kosher Salt Regular salt can be used if kosher is not on hand1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Swap with dark brown sugar for a bolder taste1/4 cup Granulated Sugar1/4 cup Honey Maple syrup is an excellent substitute1 large Eggs1 tsp Vanilla Extract Almond extract can make for an exciting twistFor the Honey Buttercream1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened for easy blending2 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust the amount for desired sweetness1/4 cup Honey Alter the ratio based on preference1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon Adds warmth and depth to the frosting1 tsp Vanilla ExtractFor Garnish1 pinch Flaky Sea Salt Enhances flavor of both the frosting and cookies Equipment OvenMixing bowlElectric MixerMeasuring CupsParchment paperWire Rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter FrostingPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, honey, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and beat until well combined and smooth.Whisk together cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt in a separate bowl.Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring on low speed until a thick dough forms.Portion out the dough using a ¼ cup measuring scoop, roll into balls, and flatten slightly.Place on lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.Bake for 11-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them.Let the cookies rest for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.For frosting, beat together softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.Frost cooled cookies with honey buttercream and drizzle honey over each, finishing with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesThese Cornbread Cookies with Honey Butter Frosting are perfect for sweetening any occasion. Store cookies in an airtight container for optimal freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!