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Spicy Honey Butter Corn Ribs Flavorful Grilled Dish

by on June 20, 2025

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Get ready to elevate your summer cookouts with Spicy Honey Butter Corn Ribs! This flavorful grilled dish bursts with sweet and spicy goodness, making it a perfect side or snack. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create tender corn that is brushed with a tasty honey butter mix. Whether you’re grilling or roasting, these corn ribs will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive in!

- 4 large ears of corn, husked and carefully halved lengthwise - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 2 tablespoons honey, preferably raw for depth of flavor - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for that rich, smoky essence - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (feel free to adjust based on your spice preference) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added savoriness - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish - Lime wedges, for zesty serving Tips for Selecting the Best Corn When picking corn, look for bright green husks. The kernels should be plump and firm. Avoid corn with brown spots or dry silk. Fresh corn is sweet and juicy. How to Choose the Right Type of Honey For this recipe, raw honey works best. It has a richer flavor. You can also try clover or wildflower honey. Always taste before you buy to find your favorite. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Prepping the grill or oven Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). This step gets the heat just right for cooking your corn ribs evenly. A hot grill or oven ensures that your corn gets that nice char and flavor. - Making the spicy honey butter mixture In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This mixture will give your corn its spicy and sweet kick! - Preparing the corn ribs Take 4 large ears of corn and husk them. Slice each ear in half lengthwise to create 8 corn ribs. Be careful while cutting; you want them to be even for cooking. - Grilling the corn ribs Place the corn ribs directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through. This way, you get nice char marks and even cooking. When they are tender, they are ready to eat! - Oven roasting the corn ribs If you prefer, you can roast the corn ribs in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once for even cooking. Check for tenderness to know when they are done. - Brushing with additional butter Once the corn ribs are off the heat, brush them again with the spicy honey butter mixture. This adds extra flavor and keeps them moist. - Garnishing and serving suggestions For the final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top. Serve your corn ribs with lime wedges on the side. The lime adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors. Enjoy your tasty dish! To get the flavor just right, adjust the cayenne pepper. If you like heat, add more. For a milder dish, use less. Balancing sweetness and spiciness is key. Honey adds sweetness, while cayenne brings heat. Taste your butter mix before using it. This way, you can find the perfect blend for your taste. Knowing when the corn is done is simple. Look for tender kernels and nice char marks. You can also poke a kernel with a fork. If it’s soft and juicy, it’s ready! To keep moisture during grilling, brush the corn ribs well with butter. This helps lock in flavor and keeps them juicy. Corn ribs taste great with fresh lime wedges. The zestiness of lime cuts through the sweetness. For a fun twist, try serving with a spicy dipping sauce. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for color. Present them on a wooden board for a rustic look. Enjoy the fun of sharing this dish with friends! Pro Tips Choose the Right Corn: For the best flavor and texture, select sweet, fresh corn that feels firm to the touch and has bright green husks. Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference; you can also add a pinch of chili powder for extra depth. Grilling vs. Roasting: Grilling will impart a smokier flavor, while roasting in the oven provides a sweeter taste. Choose based on your desired outcome! Extra Butter for Serving: Save some of the spicy honey butter to drizzle on top just before serving for an added burst of flavor. {{image_4}} You can make spicy honey butter corn ribs even better. Try adding different spices like chili powder or cumin. Both spices give a nice twist. Chili powder adds heat, while cumin brings earthiness. You can also use flavored butters. Herbed butter adds a fresh touch. Mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. These small changes create a whole new taste experience. If you want a vegan version, swap the butter and honey. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. For honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. These choices keep the flavor while being plant-based. For gluten-free corn ribs, this recipe is already safe. Corn is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy without worry. Serve corn ribs with sauces or dips for more flavor. Try a spicy mayo or a creamy ranch dip. Both add a fun twist. You can also incorporate corn ribs into salads or bowls. Slice them and mix with fresh greens, beans, or grains. This makes a tasty, colorful dish that impresses. To store leftovers, let the corn ribs cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you have leftover spicy honey butter, keep it in a separate container. It can also last up to a week when stored properly. To reheat corn ribs, use an oven or grill. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn ribs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm. This method keeps them tender and tasty. If using a grill, heat it to medium. Grill the corn ribs for about 5 minutes, just until warm. For quick serving tips, drizzle some extra spicy honey butter on top. This adds flavor and makes them even more delightful! The best way to cook corn ribs is on a grill or in an oven. Grilling gives them a nice char and smoky flavor. Set your grill to 400°F. Grill the corn ribs for 15-20 minutes. Turn them halfway for even cooking. If using an oven, roast them at the same temperature for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once to cook evenly. I do not recommend using frozen corn for this recipe. Fresh corn has a sweet flavor and nice texture. Frozen corn can be mushy and less tasty. If you cannot find fresh corn, try to use canned corn with good drainage. To check if your corn is sweet, taste a kernel raw. Sweet corn should have a crisp and juicy bite. The kernels should also be plump and full. If it tastes starchy or bland, it may not be sweet enough for this dish. Yes, you can make the spicy honey butter ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. This helps it spread easily on the corn ribs. Corn ribs go well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. They also pair nicely with salads and dips. Try serving them with a fresh salsa or guacamole. For a fun twist, add them to tacos for a sweet and spicy kick. You now have all the tools to make tasty corn ribs. Start with fresh corn and create a great spicy honey butter. Follow our steps for grilling or roasting to get the best flavor. Use our tips for spice and moisture to perfect your dish. Remember, you can customize it to fit your tastes. Enjoy your corn ribs with fun sides and creative presentations. With a bit of care, your corn ribs will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy cayenne, smoky paprika, and sweet honey creates a delightful explosion of flavors that elevate the humble corn to new heights.
  2. Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
  3. Versatile Serving: These corn ribs are great as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main event during summer barbecues—everyone will love them!
  4. Fresh Garnish: The addition of lime and cilantro or parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich buttery flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 large ears of corn, husked and carefully halved lengthwise

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

– 2 tablespoons honey, preferably raw for depth of flavor

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for that rich, smoky essence

– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (feel free to adjust based on your spice preference)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added savoriness

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish

– Lime wedges, for zesty serving

Ingredient Notes

Tips for Selecting the Best Corn

When picking corn, look for bright green husks. The kernels should be plump and firm. Avoid corn with brown spots or dry silk. Fresh corn is sweet and juicy.

How to Choose the Right Type of Honey

For this recipe, raw honey works best. It has a richer flavor. You can also try clover or wildflower honey. Always taste before you buy to find your favorite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Prepping the grill or oven

Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). This step gets the heat just right for cooking your corn ribs evenly. A hot grill or oven ensures that your corn gets that nice char and flavor.

– Making the spicy honey butter mixture

In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This mixture will give your corn its spicy and sweet kick!

– Preparing the corn ribs

Take 4 large ears of corn and husk them. Slice each ear in half lengthwise to create 8 corn ribs. Be careful while cutting; you want them to be even for cooking.

Cooking Methods

– Grilling the corn ribs

Place the corn ribs directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through. This way, you get nice char marks and even cooking. When they are tender, they are ready to eat!

– Oven roasting the corn ribs

If you prefer, you can roast the corn ribs in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once for even cooking. Check for tenderness to know when they are done.

Final Touches

– Brushing with additional butter

Once the corn ribs are off the heat, brush them again with the spicy honey butter mixture. This adds extra flavor and keeps them moist.

– Garnishing and serving suggestions

For the final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top. Serve your corn ribs with lime wedges on the side. The lime adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors. Enjoy your tasty dish!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Flavor

To get the flavor just right, adjust the cayenne pepper. If you like heat, add more. For a milder dish, use less. Balancing sweetness and spiciness is key. Honey adds sweetness, while cayenne brings heat. Taste your butter mix before using it. This way, you can find the perfect blend for your taste.

Cooking Tips

Knowing when the corn is done is simple. Look for tender kernels and nice char marks. You can also poke a kernel with a fork. If it’s soft and juicy, it’s ready! To keep moisture during grilling, brush the corn ribs well with butter. This helps lock in flavor and keeps them juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Corn ribs taste great with fresh lime wedges. The zestiness of lime cuts through the sweetness. For a fun twist, try serving with a spicy dipping sauce. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for color. Present them on a wooden board for a rustic look. Enjoy the fun of sharing this dish with friends!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Corn: For the best flavor and texture, select sweet, fresh corn that feels firm to the touch and has bright green husks.
  2. Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference; you can also add a pinch of chili powder for extra depth.
  3. Grilling vs. Roasting: Grilling will impart a smokier flavor, while roasting in the oven provides a sweeter taste. Choose based on your desired outcome!
  4. Extra Butter for Serving: Save some of the spicy honey butter to drizzle on top just before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Variations

Flavor Enhancements

You can make spicy honey butter corn ribs even better. Try adding different spices like chili powder or cumin. Both spices give a nice twist. Chili powder adds heat, while cumin brings earthiness. You can also use flavored butters. Herbed butter adds a fresh touch. Mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. These small changes create a whole new taste experience.

Dietary Adjustments

If you want a vegan version, swap the butter and honey. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. For honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. These choices keep the flavor while being plant-based. For gluten-free corn ribs, this recipe is already safe. Corn is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy without worry.

Unique Serving Ideas

Serve corn ribs with sauces or dips for more flavor. Try a spicy mayo or a creamy ranch dip. Both add a fun twist. You can also incorporate corn ribs into salads or bowls. Slice them and mix with fresh greens, beans, or grains. This makes a tasty, colorful dish that impresses.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the corn ribs cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you have leftover spicy honey butter, keep it in a separate container. It can also last up to a week when stored properly.

Reheating

To reheat corn ribs, use an oven or grill. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn ribs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm. This method keeps them tender and tasty. If using a grill, heat it to medium. Grill the corn ribs for about 5 minutes, just until warm.

For quick serving tips, drizzle some extra spicy honey butter on top. This adds flavor and makes them even more delightful!

FAQs

What is the best way to cook corn ribs?

The best way to cook corn ribs is on a grill or in an oven. Grilling gives them a nice char and smoky flavor. Set your grill to 400°F. Grill the corn ribs for 15-20 minutes. Turn them halfway for even cooking. If using an oven, roast them at the same temperature for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once to cook evenly.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

I do not recommend using frozen corn for this recipe. Fresh corn has a sweet flavor and nice texture. Frozen corn can be mushy and less tasty. If you cannot find fresh corn, try to use canned corn with good drainage.

How do I know if my corn is sweet enough?

To check if your corn is sweet, taste a kernel raw. Sweet corn should have a crisp and juicy bite. The kernels should also be plump and full. If it tastes starchy or bland, it may not be sweet enough for this dish.

Can I make the spicy honey butter in advance?

Yes, you can make the spicy honey butter ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. This helps it spread easily on the corn ribs.

What other dishes pair well with corn ribs?

Corn ribs go well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. They also pair nicely with salads and dips. Try serving them with a fresh salsa or guacamole. For a fun twist, add them to tacos for a sweet and spicy kick.

You now have all the tools to make tasty corn ribs. Start with fresh corn and create a great spicy honey butter. Follow our steps for grilling or roasting to get the best flavor. Use our tips for spice and moisture to perfect your dish. Remember, you can customize it to fit your tastes. Enjoy your corn ribs with fun sides and creative presentations. With a bit of care, your corn ribs will impress everyone at the table. Happy cookin

- 4 large ears of corn, husked and carefully halved lengthwise - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 2 tablespoons honey, preferably raw for depth of flavor - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for that rich, smoky essence - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (feel free to adjust based on your spice preference) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added savoriness - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish - Lime wedges, for zesty serving Tips for Selecting the Best Corn When picking corn, look for bright green husks. The kernels should be plump and firm. Avoid corn with brown spots or dry silk. Fresh corn is sweet and juicy. How to Choose the Right Type of Honey For this recipe, raw honey works best. It has a richer flavor. You can also try clover or wildflower honey. Always taste before you buy to find your favorite. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Prepping the grill or oven Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). This step gets the heat just right for cooking your corn ribs evenly. A hot grill or oven ensures that your corn gets that nice char and flavor. - Making the spicy honey butter mixture In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This mixture will give your corn its spicy and sweet kick! - Preparing the corn ribs Take 4 large ears of corn and husk them. Slice each ear in half lengthwise to create 8 corn ribs. Be careful while cutting; you want them to be even for cooking. - Grilling the corn ribs Place the corn ribs directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through. This way, you get nice char marks and even cooking. When they are tender, they are ready to eat! - Oven roasting the corn ribs If you prefer, you can roast the corn ribs in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once for even cooking. Check for tenderness to know when they are done. - Brushing with additional butter Once the corn ribs are off the heat, brush them again with the spicy honey butter mixture. This adds extra flavor and keeps them moist. - Garnishing and serving suggestions For the final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top. Serve your corn ribs with lime wedges on the side. The lime adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors. Enjoy your tasty dish! To get the flavor just right, adjust the cayenne pepper. If you like heat, add more. For a milder dish, use less. Balancing sweetness and spiciness is key. Honey adds sweetness, while cayenne brings heat. Taste your butter mix before using it. This way, you can find the perfect blend for your taste. Knowing when the corn is done is simple. Look for tender kernels and nice char marks. You can also poke a kernel with a fork. If it’s soft and juicy, it’s ready! To keep moisture during grilling, brush the corn ribs well with butter. This helps lock in flavor and keeps them juicy. Corn ribs taste great with fresh lime wedges. The zestiness of lime cuts through the sweetness. For a fun twist, try serving with a spicy dipping sauce. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for color. Present them on a wooden board for a rustic look. Enjoy the fun of sharing this dish with friends! Pro Tips Choose the Right Corn: For the best flavor and texture, select sweet, fresh corn that feels firm to the touch and has bright green husks. Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference; you can also add a pinch of chili powder for extra depth. Grilling vs. Roasting: Grilling will impart a smokier flavor, while roasting in the oven provides a sweeter taste. Choose based on your desired outcome! Extra Butter for Serving: Save some of the spicy honey butter to drizzle on top just before serving for an added burst of flavor. {{image_4}} You can make spicy honey butter corn ribs even better. Try adding different spices like chili powder or cumin. Both spices give a nice twist. Chili powder adds heat, while cumin brings earthiness. You can also use flavored butters. Herbed butter adds a fresh touch. Mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. These small changes create a whole new taste experience. If you want a vegan version, swap the butter and honey. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. For honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. These choices keep the flavor while being plant-based. For gluten-free corn ribs, this recipe is already safe. Corn is naturally gluten-free, so enjoy without worry. Serve corn ribs with sauces or dips for more flavor. Try a spicy mayo or a creamy ranch dip. Both add a fun twist. You can also incorporate corn ribs into salads or bowls. Slice them and mix with fresh greens, beans, or grains. This makes a tasty, colorful dish that impresses. To store leftovers, let the corn ribs cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you have leftover spicy honey butter, keep it in a separate container. It can also last up to a week when stored properly. To reheat corn ribs, use an oven or grill. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn ribs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm. This method keeps them tender and tasty. If using a grill, heat it to medium. Grill the corn ribs for about 5 minutes, just until warm. For quick serving tips, drizzle some extra spicy honey butter on top. This adds flavor and makes them even more delightful! The best way to cook corn ribs is on a grill or in an oven. Grilling gives them a nice char and smoky flavor. Set your grill to 400°F. Grill the corn ribs for 15-20 minutes. Turn them halfway for even cooking. If using an oven, roast them at the same temperature for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them once to cook evenly. I do not recommend using frozen corn for this recipe. Fresh corn has a sweet flavor and nice texture. Frozen corn can be mushy and less tasty. If you cannot find fresh corn, try to use canned corn with good drainage. To check if your corn is sweet, taste a kernel raw. Sweet corn should have a crisp and juicy bite. The kernels should also be plump and full. If it tastes starchy or bland, it may not be sweet enough for this dish. Yes, you can make the spicy honey butter ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. This helps it spread easily on the corn ribs. Corn ribs go well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. They also pair nicely with salads and dips. Try serving them with a fresh salsa or guacamole. For a fun twist, add them to tacos for a sweet and spicy kick. You now have all the tools to make tasty corn ribs. Start with fresh corn and create a great spicy honey butter. Follow our steps for grilling or roasting to get the best flavor. Use our tips for spice and moisture to perfect your dish. Remember, you can customize it to fit your tastes. Enjoy your corn ribs with fun sides and creative presentations. With a bit of care, your corn ribs will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Spicy Honey Butter Corn Ribs

Delicious corn ribs brushed with a spicy honey butter blend, grilled or roasted to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large ears of corn, husked and halved lengthwise
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons honey, preferably raw
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • for garnish fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped
  • for serving lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your grill or oven to a temperature of 400°F (200°C).
  • In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
  • Carefully slice each corn cob in half lengthwise to create 'ribs', resulting in a total of 8 pieces.
  • Generously brush each corn rib with the spicy honey butter mixture, covering all sides.
  • For grilling: Place the corn ribs on the grill grates and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. For roasting, arrange on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping once.
  • After cooking, brush the corn ribs again with the spicy honey butter.
  • Garnish with finely chopped cilantro or parsley and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Keyword appetizer, butter, corn, grilled, spicy

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