Name: Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup coarse cornmeal; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 small jalapeños, seeded and diced; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature; 3 tablespoons avocado, vegetable, or canola oil; 2 large eggs, at room temperature

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When I think of cozy gatherings and the warmth of home-cooked meals, Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread immediately comes to mind. This delightful dish has been a staple at my family gatherings, where the aroma of freshly baked cornbread fills the air with a sense of anticipation. The spicy kick from the jalapeños combined with the rich, melted cheddar cheese creates an irresistible pairing that complements a variety of meals. Whether it’s a festive holiday dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this cornbread never fails to impress.

My fondest memories involve my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up a batch of her famous cornbread, teaching me the secret to balancing the heat from the jalapeños with the creamy texture of buttermilk. As I grew older, I adapted her recipe, adding a personal touch that reflects my tastes. Each time I bake this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread, it’s not just about satisfying hunger but also celebrating those cherished moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones.

What I love most is how versatile this cornbread is. It can be served as a side dish with chili, enjoyed on its own, or even toasted for breakfast with a smear of butter. The combination of coarse cornmeal and all-purpose flour gives it a perfect texture that’s both crumbly and moist. I can guarantee that once you make this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread, it will become a regular in your cooking repertoire!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
8×8 metal baking pan

The Magic of This Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

It’s Perfectly Moist

One of the standout features of Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is its incredible moisture. Thanks to the combination of buttermilk and melted butter, every bite is rich and satisfying. The moisture prevents it from becoming dry, making it the ideal accompaniment to hearty stews or soups.

Flavor Explosion

The marriage of jalapeños and cheddar cheese offers a flavor explosion unlike any other. The heat from the jalapeños is perfectly balanced with the creaminess of the cheddar cheese, creating a harmonious dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy. It’s a culinary delight that awakens your taste buds with every bite.

Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive recipe, this is it! The process is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread in no time.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I bring this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread to gatherings, it vanishes within minutes! Friends and family rave about its deliciousness, and I often find myself sharing the recipe. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, making it a staple at potluck dinners and holiday feasts.

Customizable

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or experiment by incorporating other ingredients like corn or different cheeses. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the cornbread to your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

The beauty of Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and taste. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal forms the backbone, while jalapeños and cheddar cheese add depth and character.

1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cornbread, ensuring it holds together while remaining fluffy.
1 cup coarse cornmeal – Adds a delightful texture and a distinct corn flavor that defines traditional cornbread.
1/3 cup granulated sugar – Balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cornbread rise, resulting in a light and airy texture.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Works in conjunction with the baking powder for optimal leavening.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors, bringing out the best in each ingredient.
1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the cornbread, creating pockets of gooey goodness.
2 small jalapeños, seeded and diced – Infuses the cornbread with a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor that complements the cornmeal.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature – Provides richness and flavor, ensuring a tender crumb.
3 tablespoons avocado, vegetable, or canola oil – Keeps the cornbread moist and enhances its texture.
2 large eggs, at room temperature – Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.

Recipe Steps for Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Creating the perfect Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a delightful experience. The steps are simple, but the results are incredibly rewarding. By following these instructions, you’ll find yourself savoring a warm, cheesy slice in no time!

First, center a rack in your oven and preheat it to 400°F. The key here is to ensure that your oven is fully preheated, as this will help the cornbread rise properly. Next, spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, coarse cornmeal, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. The mixture should be well-combined, with no lumps. Once everything is mixed, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños, distributing them evenly throughout the dry ingredients.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, oil, and eggs. Ensure that the buttermilk is at room temperature, as this will help the batter mix in better. Once combined, carefully pour the liquid ingredients over the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is lumpy; overmixing can lead to dense cornbread.
Next, pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. The mixture should be thick, but smooth enough to spread out. Use a spatula to help smooth the top if needed, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Now, place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it toward the end; you’re looking for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean. If it’s still gooey, give it a few more minutes.
Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows the cornbread to set and makes it easier to cut. After cooling, cut it into squares and serve warm.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your buttermilk and eggs at room temperature helps the batter mix more smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing leads to tough cornbread.
Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is your best friend; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Let It Rest: Allowing the cornbread to cool in the pan helps it firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.

Ways to Customize

One of the joys of making Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is the ability to customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas to enhance this already fantastic dish!

Add More Heat: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding diced serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Sweet Corn: For a sweeter flavor, mix in some canned or frozen sweet corn into the batter.
Herbs and Spices: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can elevate the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Serving Ideas: Top with honey butter or serve with a side of chili for a delicious meal.
Storage: Keep leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: Cut the cornbread into squares and freeze in a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat in the oven.

Serving Options for Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

When it comes to serving Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas:

With Chili: Pairing this cornbread with a hearty chili creates a comforting meal perfect for chilly nights.
As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted meats or grilled veggies for a flavorful complement to your main dish.
Breakfast Treat: Enjoy it warm, toasted with a little butter for breakfast.
Picnic Favorite: Slice it up for picnics; it travels well and is a crowd-pleaser.
With Soup: It’s an excellent side for soups, adding texture and flavor to the meal.
Storage Tips: Store the cornbread in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last up to three days at room temperature.
Seasonal Pairings: This cornbread is perfect for fall gatherings, enjoying it with seasonal dishes.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature and can be reheated in the oven for a warm, delicious side.

This cornbread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it with chili, soup, or even grilled meats. Its cheesy and slightly spicy flavor complements many meals, making it a fantastic addition to any dinner table.

To store Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, cut it into squares and freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat in the oven!

Yes! If you love a bit more heat, consider adding additional diced jalapeños or even a touch of cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the spiciness to your taste by adding or reducing the amount of peppers.

Conclusion

The Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a unique blend of flavors that brings comfort and joy to any meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe; the delightful combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheddar cheese will surely become a favorite in your household.