Name: Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to your spice preference)

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: A Spicy, Cheesy Slice of Southern Comfort 🌶️🧀🍞

1. Introduction

Looking for a flavorful twist on a classic? This cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe delivers a delightful kick with every bite! Combining the comforting sweetness of traditional cornbread with the savory richness of cheddar cheese and the zesty heat of jalapeños, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, bringing it to a potluck, or simply enjoying a warm slice on a cozy evening, this spicy cornbread is guaranteed to impress. This jalapeno cornbread is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Get ready to experience the ultimate in cheesy, spicy goodness! If you love exploring recipes that bring a bit of spice to your table, you might also enjoy browsing our other Dinner recipes for inspiration.

Delicious slice of cheddar jalapeño cornbread with butter and jalapeño garnish.

2. What Makes This Cornbread Special?

This isn’t your average cornbread. The addition of cheddar and jalapeños elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The cheddar cheese provides a creamy, savory element that complements the sweetness of the cornmeal, while the jalapeños add a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the perfect choice when you are craving cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe. This cheesy cornbread is moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. For more information on cornbread variations, check out this external link.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup melted butter
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2-3 jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to your spice preference)

4. Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan
Whisk or spatula

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for a consistent texture in your jalapeno cornbread. This ensures that every slice of your cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe is perfect. Don’t skip this step as it’s essential for even baking! And if you are looking for something sweet after this perfect cornbread, check out our Desserts recipes!

Dry ingredients for cheddar jalapeño cornbread in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Cheese

In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg. Mix well until the egg is fully incorporated. Add ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the wet ingredients and stir gently. Preparing the wet ingredients separately ensures a smooth and even batter for your cheesy cornbread. Using room temperature eggs can help with even mixing. For more cheesy recipe ideas, consider our Beef Recipes which often pair well with cheese.

Buttermilk and cheddar cheese ready for cheddar jalapeño cornbread.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Gently fold in the diced jalapeños. Overmixing can result in tough cornbread, so a light hand is key when making this spicy cornbread. The jalapeños add a wonderful kick to the cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe. If you like spicy, you might also like our Chicken Recipes.

Adding diced jalapeños and melted butter to cornbread mix.

Step 4: Bake the Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven while it preheats. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and pour the batter into the skillet. Alternatively, grease a 9-inch baking pan and pour the batter in. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking the cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe in a hot cast iron skillet gives it a wonderfully crispy crust. Ensure your oven is properly preheated for the best results!

Cheddar cheese being mixed into cheddar jalapeño cornbread batter.

6. Tips for the Perfect Cornbread

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cornbread. Mix until just combined.
Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and makes the cornbread more tender.
Hot Skillet: If using a cast iron skillet, preheating it in the oven ensures a crispy crust.
Adjust the Spice: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your preference. For a milder cornbread, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially cheese and buttermilk, will significantly enhance the flavor of your cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe.

7. Serving Suggestions

This jalapeno cornbread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside chili, soups, stews, or barbecue. It’s also a great addition to breakfast or brunch. Spread with butter, honey, or even a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor. The versatility of this cheesy cornbread makes it a welcome addition to any meal. Consider serving it with our Soups for a comforting combination. If you’d like to know more About us, here is the place!

8. Variations

Add Corn Kernels: For extra texture and sweetness, add a cup of corn kernels to the batter.
Different Cheese: Try using a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Add fresh herbs, such as chives or cilantro, for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky, savory element to the cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe.
Sweet Cornbread: Reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them entirely and increase the sugar for a sweeter version.

9. Conclusion

This cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe is a fantastic way to spice up a classic. With its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of the best spicy cornbread you’ve ever tasted! And If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to work with me!