Creating Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers is straightforward, especially when following these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with mini muffin liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until well mixed.

4. Add Wet to Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense poppers.

5. Fold in Extras: Gently fold in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese if using. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the poppers.

6. Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the poppers are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Remove the poppers from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Prepare for Serving: In a small bowl, mix additional melted butter and honey together to use as a dipping sauce.

10. Serve: Serve the warm poppers with the honey butter dip for an incredible taste experience.