Creating Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers is a breeze if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder for added flavor.
6. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the poppers cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. Make Honey Butter: While the poppers are cooling, prepare the honey butter by mixing room temperature butter with honey until smooth.
10. Serve Warm: Serve the cornbread poppers warm, drizzled with the honey butter for an extra touch of sweetness.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers ready to share!