Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

Every summer, our family barbecues become a stage for culinary experiments, and this year, Honey Butter Corn on the Cob stole the show. Initially, I was a bit skeptical – would the honey butter be too sweet? Would it overpower the natural flavor of the corn? But from the first bite, any doubts vanished. The combination was simply magical. The sweet, creamy honey butter melted into every kernel, creating an irresistible glaze that was both savory and sweet. The kids devoured it, my husband asked for seconds (and thirds!), and even my picky mother-in-law raved about it. It’s safe to say, Honey Butter Corn on the Cob is now a permanent fixture in our summer menu. This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s guaranteed to impress at your next gathering or just elevate your weeknight dinner, look no further. Prepare to be amazed by the simple perfection of Honey Butter Corn on the Cob.

Ingredients for Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

• Fresh Corn on the Cob (8 ears): Choose fresh, vibrant corn on the cob still in their husks for the best flavor and sweetness. Look for plump kernels and bright green husks. The fresher the corn, the sweeter and more tender it will be.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, 1 stick): Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish and lets the sweetness of the honey shine through. It provides a rich, creamy base for the honey butter.
• Honey (1/4 cup): Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Different types of honey (like wildflower, clover, or orange blossom) can add subtle nuances to the dish. Honey not only adds sweetness but also a beautiful glaze and depth of flavor.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Sea salt or kosher salt are great choices for their clean taste.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice to complement the sweetness. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best aroma and flavor.

Instructions for Making Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

1. Prepare the Corn: Start by shucking the corn. Peel back the husks and silks from each ear of corn. Remove all the silks carefully. You can rinse the corn under cold water if needed to remove any remaining silks. For a slightly charred flavor, you can leave a few layers of the inner husk on for grilling or baking, but for boiling, completely shucking is recommended for better honey butter penetration.
2. Cook the Corn: There are several ways to cook corn on the cob for this recipe. Choose your preferred method:
   • Boiling: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently place the shucked corn into the boiling water. Boil for 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender-crisp and bright yellow. Avoid overcooking, as the corn can become mushy.
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. You can grill the corn directly on the grates for a smoky flavor, or wrap each ear in foil for a more steamed effect. For direct grilling, lightly brush the shucked corn with olive oil or butter and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred. For foil grilling, wrap each ear in foil with a pat of butter and grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap each shucked ear of corn in foil with a pat of butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until kernels are tender. Baking in foil steams the corn and keeps it moist.
3. Make the Honey Butter: While the corn is cooking, prepare the honey butter. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. If using a saucepan, melt over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
4. Combine Honey and Butter: Once the butter is melted, remove it from the heat or microwave. Stir in the honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the honey is fully incorporated into the melted butter and the mixture is smooth and emulsified. The warmth of the butter will help the honey blend seamlessly.
5. Apply the Honey Butter Glaze: Once the corn is cooked, immediately brush it generously with the honey butter glaze. Use a pastry brush or spoon to ensure every kernel is coated with the luscious honey butter. If you prefer, you can also roll the hot corn on the cob in a shallow dish of honey butter to coat it evenly.
6. Serve Immediately: Honey Butter Corn on the Cob is best served immediately while it’s hot and the honey butter is melted and glistening. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra black pepper or fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, barbecue, or summer salads.

Nutrition Facts for Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: Approximately 180-220 calories (This can vary depending on the size of the corn and amount of honey butter used)

• Carbohydrates (Approx. 30-35g per serving): Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from natural sugars and starch. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body.
• Fat (Approx. 7-10g per serving): From the butter and naturally occurring fats in corn. Fat is essential for nutrient absorption and provides energy.
• Protein (Approx. 3-4g per serving): Corn contains a small amount of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues.
• Fiber (Approx. 2-3g per serving): Corn provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Sugars (Approx. 10-15g per serving): Naturally occurring sugars in corn and added sugars from honey. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands and measurements.

Preparation Time for Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

Prep Time: 15 minutes (This includes shucking the corn and making the honey butter)
Cook Time: 5-25 minutes (Depending on the cooking method chosen: boiling is fastest, grilling and baking take a bit longer)
Total Time: 20-40 minutes (From start to finish, you can have delicious Honey Butter Corn on the Cob ready to serve in under 40 minutes)

This recipe is perfect for a quick side dish for weeknight dinners or for larger gatherings. The simplicity and speed of preparation are part of its appeal.

How to Serve Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

Honey Butter Corn on the Cob is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish for Grilled Meats:
  • Perfect accompaniment to grilled steak, chicken, pork chops, or ribs. The sweetness of the corn balances the savory flavors of the meat.
  • Serve alongside BBQ ribs or pulled pork for a classic summer barbecue meal.
  • Pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or shrimp, adding a touch of sweetness to seafood.
• Complementing Vegetarian Mains:
  • Serve with vegetarian burgers or veggie skewers for a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal.
  • Great with grilled halloumi cheese or tofu steaks, adding a sweet and savory element.
  • Pairs well with hearty salads featuring grilled vegetables or legumes.
• Summer Gatherings and Cookouts:
  • An ideal side dish for potlucks, picnics, and backyard barbecues. It’s easy to transport and serve at room temperature, though best served warm.
  • A crowd-pleasing option for holiday celebrations like Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day.
• Elevate Weeknight Dinners:
  • Add a touch of sweetness and flavor to simple weeknight meals like roasted chicken, baked fish, or pasta dishes.
  • Makes a simple meal feel more special and exciting with minimal effort.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Corn Ribs: Cut the corn cobs lengthwise into quarters before cooking and glazing for fun “corn ribs”.
  • Corn Salad: Cut the kernels off the cob after cooking and toss with the remaining honey butter and fresh herbs for a delicious corn salad.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, cilantro, or basil for added freshness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dash of chili flakes can also enhance the flavor.

Additional Tips for Perfect Honey Butter Corn on the Cob

1. Choose the Freshest Corn: The key to the best Honey Butter Corn on the Cob is starting with high-quality, fresh corn. Look for corn with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around plump, milky kernels. Check the silks at the top; they should be slightly moist and light brown, not dry and brittle.
2. Don’t Overcook the Corn: Overcooked corn can become mushy and lose its sweetness. Whether you’re boiling, grilling, or baking, cook the corn just until the kernels are tender-crisp. For boiling, 5-7 minutes is usually sufficient once the water returns to a boil after adding the corn.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet corn on the cob, you can reduce the amount of honey in the honey butter glaze. Start with 2 tablespoons and taste, adding more to your liking. You can also use a different type of sweetener, like maple syrup, for a slightly different flavor profile, though honey provides a unique floral sweetness.
4. Enhance with Spices and Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding spices to your honey butter. A pinch of smoked paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder can add depth and complexity. Fresh herbs like chopped thyme, rosemary, or chives can also be stirred into the honey butter or sprinkled on top of the finished corn.
5. Grilling for Smoky Flavor: Grilling the corn on the cob will impart a delightful smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey butter. For a more pronounced smoky taste, grill the corn directly on the grates without foil. Just be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.
6. Keep it Warm: If you’re preparing the corn ahead of time, keep it warm by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for up to 30 minutes. You can also keep it warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Apply the honey butter glaze just before serving to maintain its glossy appearance.
7. Make Honey Butter Ahead: You can make the honey butter glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a saucepan or microwave before brushing it on the cooked corn. This saves time on the day of serving, especially when entertaining.
8. Experiment with Different Butters: While unsalted butter is classic, you can experiment with browned butter or even flavored butters for a richer, nuttier flavor. Browned butter adds a caramel-like note that pairs beautifully with honey and corn. You can also infuse butter with herbs or garlic for added complexity, though for this recipe, simple unsalted butter often allows the honey and corn flavors to shine best.

Frequently Asked Questions about Honey Butter Corn on the Cob (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen corn on the cob for this recipe?
A1: Fresh corn on the cob is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Frozen corn on the cob can be used in a pinch, but the texture may be slightly softer and less sweet. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely before cooking and reduce the cooking time slightly.

Q2: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A2: Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the corn too salty. Taste the honey butter mixture before glazing the corn and adjust salt accordingly.

Q3: Can I make Honey Butter Corn on the Cob ahead of time?
A3: It’s best to serve Honey Butter Corn on the Cob immediately after cooking and glazing for the best flavor and texture. However, you can cook the corn ahead of time and keep it warm. Make the honey butter glaze ahead and reheat it gently. Glaze the corn just before serving.

Q4: How long does Honey Butter Corn on the Cob last?
A4: Leftover Honey Butter Corn on the Cob can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. The corn may lose some of its crispness upon reheating, but it will still be flavorful.

Q5: Can I grill Honey Butter Corn on the Cob in the husks?
A5: Yes, grilling corn in the husks is a great way to steam the corn and keep it moist. Soak the unhusked corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Grill over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Shuck the corn after grilling and then glaze with honey butter.

Q6: What if I don’t have honey? Can I use another sweetener?
A6: If you don’t have honey, you can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar. Maple syrup will impart a slightly different flavor but still provide a delicious sweetness. Agave nectar is another good option for a milder sweetness. Brown sugar or granulated sugar can also be used, but they may not create the same smooth glaze as honey or liquid sweeteners.

Q7: Is Honey Butter Corn on the Cob kid-friendly?
A7: Absolutely! Honey Butter Corn on the Cob is very kid-friendly. The sweet and savory flavor combination is appealing to most children. It’s a great way to get kids to enjoy vegetables. Just be mindful of potential allergies to corn or dairy if applicable.

Q8: Can I add cheese to Honey Butter Corn on the Cob?
A8: While not traditional, you can certainly add cheese to Honey Butter Corn on the Cob for an extra layer of flavor. Try sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese, cotija cheese, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese over the glazed corn for a salty and savory contrast to the sweetness. Add the cheese just before serving.

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