Name: Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup yellow cornmeal (not mix); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups buttermilk; 4 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 10 ounces frozen sweet corn (thawed); 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 3-4 large jalapenos (diced (about 1/2 cup))

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through the kitchen. This Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is not just any cornbread; it packs a flavorful punch with spicy jalapenos and rich, sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly moist and slightly sweet, this cornbread is the ideal sidekick for soups, stews, or just slathered with butter. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread has quickly become a staple in my home. The combination of spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar creates a delightful flavor explosion that’s both savory and satisfying. I love how easy it is to whip up, and it’s a great way to use up ingredients like frozen corn. Serve it alongside Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a comforting meal or crumble it into a unique Cornbread Apple Stuffing for Thanksgiving. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion!

What Goes Into Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread

To make this delicious cornbread, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup yellow cornmeal (not mix)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups buttermilk
4 large eggs
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
10 ounces frozen sweet corn, thawed
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3-4 large jalapenos, diced (about 1/2 cup)

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start, gather the following equipment to make the process smooth:

Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Perfect for folding in the corn and cheese.
9×13-inch Baking Pan: Ideal for baking the cornbread evenly.
Oven: Preheat your oven for optimal baking results.

Make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: A Simple Method

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your cornbread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent the cornbread from sticking.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it will cook the eggs.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 6: Fold in Corn, Cheese, and Jalapenos

Gently fold in the thawed sweet corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapenos. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a pat of butter on top!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
Spiciness: For a milder version, use less jalapeno or substitute them with roasted red peppers.
Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar with pepper jack for an extra kick.
Non-Dairy: Replace buttermilk with a non-dairy milk and add a tablespoon of lemon juice to sour it.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

After testing this recipe multiple times, here are some insights:

Be cautious with the jalapenos; the heat can vary significantly. Taste a small piece before adding them all in.
For extra moisture, you can add a little more buttermilk if the batter seems too thick.
If you have leftover cornbread, it can be toasted the next day for breakfast!

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezer: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Questions People Ask

Can I make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the pan.

How can I make this cornbread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, simply increase the sugar to 1/2 cup. You can also drizzle honey on top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

What can I serve with Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread?

This cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, and stews. Try it alongside Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a cozy meal.

Can I add other ingredients to the cornbread?

Of course! Feel free to add ingredients like cooked bacon, green onions, or even different cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.

Keep Cooking

Try making Skillet Cornbread for a different twist!
Looking for more cornbread recipes? Check out Cornbread Apple Stuffing for a festive option.

In Closing

As you can see, making Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. With its delightful balance of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that awaits. This cornbread is sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Happy baking!

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