Southern Cornbread Poppers

Save this recipe on:

Golden, crispy, and filled with cheesy corn goodness, Southern Cornbread Poppers are the snack you didn’t know you needed. These little bites are a celebration of everything we love about Southern comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and meant to be shared. Perfectly fried to a beautiful crunch, they offer a creamy and tender inside, making them the ultimate appetizer for any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a game day, planning a holiday spread, or simply indulging in some cozy cooking at home, these poppers deliver crowd-pleasing flavor in every bite. Pair them with a spicy dipping sauce or serve them as is, and watch them disappear in minutes.

---

What Makes a Perfect Cornbread Popper?

A good popper needs the right balance of crisp exterior and soft, flavorful center. The key is a moist cornbread mixture that holds together well when fried but doesn’t get dense. Cheese and corn bring both texture and taste, while chives or scallions add a little zing. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile—easy to customize and even easier to devour.

---

Ingredients for the Southern Cornbread Poppers

Cornbread mix: Start with a good-quality mix to form the base. It gives structure and classic Southern flavor.

Sweet corn kernels: Adds bursts of sweetness and juiciness in every bite.

Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the mix, adding savory depth and gooey richness.

Egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together during frying.

Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor.

Chopped chives or scallions: A touch of green and oniony sharpness brings brightness to the bite.

Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible outer crunch when frying.

Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.

---

How To Make the Southern Cornbread Poppers

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, sweet corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives or scallions, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well distributed.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Crack in the egg and pour in the buttermilk. Mix thoroughly until the batter is thick but scoopable. It should be moist enough to shape but not runny.

Step 3: Shape the Poppers

Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes to firm them up.

Step 4: Coat for Crispiness

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring a full and even coating. This step guarantees a golden, crunchy exterior after frying.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower in the poppers, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they are deep golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried poppers onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.

---

Serving and Storing Southern Cornbread Poppers

Southern Cornbread Poppers are best enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the fryer. Serve them with a spicy aioli, honey butter, or your favorite dipping sauce to complement their savory crunch. They’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun game day snack.

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until they’re warm and crisp again.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! While frying gives the crispiest result, you can bake them at 400°F on a lined baking sheet for 15-18 minutes. Spray them with oil to help with browning.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is a favorite for its bold flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoked gouda for a twist.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely. Shape and coat the poppers, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them and fry from frozen—just adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Make sure your mixture is moist but firm enough to hold shape. Chilling before frying and coating in breadcrumbs also helps them stay intact.

Are they gluten-free?

That depends on your cornbread mix and breadcrumbs. Use certified gluten-free products to make them safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

---

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If these Southern Cornbread Poppers hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to try these other mouthwatering snacks:

• Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Cheesy Breadsticks for a melty, savory twist.
• Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bites when you’re craving spice with less oil.
• Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip for a creamy, briny flavor.
• Honey Garlic Roast Pork Belly Slices for a bold and sticky-sweet bite.
• Simple Cheesy Potatoes that always please a crowd.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack or party food board so you can find it anytime.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you try a fun dipping sauce or mix in something different like jalapeños or bacon? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Questions? Comments? Drop them below—we’re all about sharing the joy of good food!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: