Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) with a 9-inch cast-iron skillet positioned on the center rack.
Sift together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a primary mixing vessel.
In a secondary vessel, whisk the egg until homogenous, then integrate buttermilk, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup honey.
Extract the preheated skillet using thermal protection; deposit 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet and rotate until the interior surface is fully coated and the butter solids begin to brown.
Integrate the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring only until the dry particulates are hydrated to prevent excessive gluten development.
Transfer the batter immediately into the hot skillet, allowing the edges to set upon contact.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches approximately 200 degrees Fahrenheit or the surface is golden brown.
Combine 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons honey in a small vessel and heat until liquefied.
Apply the honey-butter emulsion to the surface of the cornbread immediately after extraction from the oven.