When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly grilled ear of corn, sweet and smoky with just the right amount of flavor. Today, we’re elevating the classic grilled corn experience with an irresistible combination of honey, butter, lime, and fresh cilantro. This Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn is not only easy to make but will also have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or even a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your warm-weather cooking repertoire.
What Makes This Recipe Special

The beauty of this Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. The combination of the sweet honey and creamy butter complements the natural sweetness of the corn, while the lime juice adds a zesty punch. The chopped cilantro brings in a fresh, herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together beautifully. It’s a recipe that not only tastes amazing but also captures the essence of summer in every bite.
What Goes In
To make this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 4 ears shucked corn
- Lime wedges, for garnishing
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, making this dish a standout at any gathering.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment. You will need:
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly for this recipe.
- Brush: For applying the honey butter mixture.
- Bowl: To mix the honey butter and cilantro.
- Tongs: For flipping the corn on the grill.
- Knife: For shucking the corn and cutting lime wedges.
Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Mastering Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn: How-To

Now that you have all the ingredients and equipment, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your corn will cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted salted butter, honey, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Stir until well mixed. The sweetness of the honey will blend beautifully with the buttery richness, while the lime and cilantro add a refreshing twist.
Step 3: Shuck the Corn
Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 4: Brush the Corn
Using a brush, generously apply the honey butter mixture to each ear of corn, making sure to coat all sides. This will infuse the corn with flavor as it grills.
Step 5: Grill the Corn
Place the buttered corn on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has grill marks. The sugar from the honey will caramelize slightly, adding a delicious char.
Step 6: Serve with Lime Wedges
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a minute. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges for squeezing over the top. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a year-round favorite. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it in different seasons:
- Spring: Pair with grilled asparagus and a light salad for a fresh spring meal.
- Summer: Serve alongside burgers and hot dogs at your backyard barbecue.
- Fall: Use as a side for chili or hearty stews to add a touch of sweetness.
- Winter: Bring a bit of summer to your holiday table by serving alongside roasted meats.
No matter the season, this dish always fits right in!
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Even the best cooks can make mistakes! Here are some common errors when making Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn and how to fix them:
- Overcooking the Corn: If the corn is left on the grill too long, it can become tough. Aim for a cooking time of 10-15 minutes, turning frequently.
- Not Enough Butter Mixture: If you find the corn lacking flavor, consider increasing the butter and honey mix. A little extra won’t hurt!
- Burning the Corn: Watch the heat closely. If your grill is too hot, move the corn to a cooler part of the grill.
- Skipping the Cilantro: Don’t skip the cilantro! It adds a fresh flavor that elevates the dish significantly.
With these tips, your corn will turn out delicious every time!
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re planning for a gathering or just want to simplify your cooking process, here are some tips for making this dish ahead of time:
Prepare the honey butter mixture and store it in the refrigerator up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to grill, simply warm it slightly to make it easier to brush on the corn. You can also shuck the corn a few hours ahead and keep it in a cool place until grilling time. This way, you’ll save time and stress during meal prep!
Reader Q&A
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling.
What type of corn is best for grilling?
Sweet corn is the best choice for grilling, as it has the most flavor and sweetness. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan version of this dish.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover grilled corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the grill or in the oven before serving.
Don’t Miss These
If you love Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn, you’ll want to check out these related recipes:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for dessert ideas.
- Pinch of Yum for more summer grilling inspiration.
- Minimalist Baker for easy side dishes.
- Food Network for a variety of corn recipes.
The Takeaway
Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn is an incredible dish that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a way that’s simply irresistible. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will surely impress. So fire up that grill, slather on that honey butter mixture, and get ready to enjoy one of the best summer treats around!

Honey Butter Cilantro Lime Grilled Corn
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 4 ears corn shucked
- Lime wedges for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted salted butter, honey, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Stir until well mixed.
- Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Generously apply the honey butter mixture to each ear of corn.
- Place the buttered corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove from the grill and serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.
Equipment
- Grill
- Brush
- Bowl
- Tongs
- Knife
Notes
- Use fresh corn for the best flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices in the honey butter mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
