Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

The perfect fall treat, Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices to create a moist, tender cornbread. Ideal for gatherings, cozy dinners, or simply as a delicious snack, this recipe stands out with its delightful sweetness and aromatic warmth. Pair it with cinnamon honey butter for an extra touch of indulgence that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cornbread is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and autumn spices creates a comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for the season.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm as a side dish, or top it with cinnamon honey butter for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual family meal, this cornbread fits right in and enhances the dining experience.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the pumpkin and sour cream, each bite is soft and delightful.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your baking experience is smooth, gather the following essential kitchen tools before starting.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Electric hand mixer

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately without mess.
• Rubber spatula: This tool helps you fold ingredients gently without overmixing, ensuring light and fluffy cornbread.
• Electric hand mixer: It makes whipping butter to perfection quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

The perfect fall cornbread! Flavored with pumpkin and autumn spices. It’s moist and tender and extra delicious when served with cinnamon honey butter!

For the Cornbread

• 1 cup (140g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (170g) cornmeal
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (110g) packed light-brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (244g) canned pumpkin
• 1/2 cup (122g) sour cream
• 2 large eggs

For the Cinnamon Honey Butter

• 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter
• 1/3 cup (105g) honey
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an 8 by 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for the cornbread batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornmeal
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
6. Ground cinnamon
7. Ground ginger
8. Ground nutmeg
9. Ground cloves

Continue whisking for about 20 seconds until well combined. Make a well in the center of this mixture and set it aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl:
1. Add brown sugar and break up any clumps using your fingertips.
2. Pour in melted butter and add canned pumpkin; whisk everything together until smooth.
3. Incorporate sour cream and eggs into this mixture until fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the well you made in the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold until just combined—be careful not to overmix; there should be no visible streaks of flour left.

Step 5: Bake the Cornbread

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Cut

Allow the cornbread to cool slightly on a wire rack before cutting it into squares.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Honey Butter

In another mixing bowl (or using a stand mixer), whip salted butter with an electric hand mixer until it’s smooth.
Add honey, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon; mix on low speed until combined. Increase to high speed and whip until light and fluffy for about 2-3 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

Pumpkin cornbread is a delightful treat that pairs well with various dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Toasted with Butter

• Toast slices of pumpkin cornbread and spread with extra butter for a warm, comforting snack.

Accompanied by Soup

• Serve alongside a hearty soup, like butternut squash or chili, to complement the flavors of the cornbread.

With Maple Syrup

• Drizzle pure maple syrup over warm slices for a sweet twist that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

As a Breakfast Item

• Enjoy it as part of your breakfast by pairing it with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

Topped with Cream Cheese

• Spread cream cheese on top for a rich and creamy addition that contrasts nicely with the spiced cornbread.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

Perfecting your pumpkin cornbread can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your cornbread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the correct temperature before baking.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before cutting; this helps maintain its structure and moisture.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

Pumpkin cornbread makes an excellent side dish that complements many meals. Here are some tasty options to serve alongside it.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection brings color and health benefits to your plate.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the spiced sweetness of the cornbread.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the pumpkin cornbread.
4. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs complements the flavors in the cornbread beautifully.
5. Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to your meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for a satisfying pairing that rounds out your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong flour: Ensure you use all-purpose flour for the right texture. Substituting with whole wheat flour can make it dense.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cornbread tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy. Incorrect measurements can affect the final result.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cornbread to cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its moisture. Cutting too soon can make it crumbly.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven and check that it reaches 375°F. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enhance the flavor of Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}?

You can add nuts or dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly before adding it to the mixture.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Cornbread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

What should I serve with Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter}?

This cornbread pairs well with soups, stews, or even as a side dish at Thanksgiving dinner.

How long does Pumpkin Cornbread last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cornbread {with Cinnamon Honey Butter} is an irresistible treat perfect for fall gatherings. Its moist texture and warm spices make it a versatile addition to any meal. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!

---