Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cornbread with a spicy kick. Imagine biting into a golden slice, the rich aroma wafting through the kitchen as melted cheddar mingles with zesty jalapenos. It’s like a fiesta for your taste buds.

This cornbread isn’t just good; it’s great for gatherings, cozy dinners, or even as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Trust me; your friends will be begging for seconds, and you might just have to hide the leftovers!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any skill level
- Its bold flavor profile combines spicy jalapenos with creamy cheddar for an unforgettable experience
- The golden crust and soft interior create a stunning visual appeal that will impress your guests
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or snack, it complements various meals beautifully
Ingredients for Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Yellow Cornmeal: This is the star of the show, providing that classic cornbread texture. Go for stone-ground if you can find it!
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All-Purpose Flour: A little flour helps bind everything together; it ensures your cornbread isn’t too crumbly.
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Sugar: Just a hint of sugar balances the heat from the jalapenos and enhances the flavor.
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Baking Powder: This is your leavening agent, so make sure it’s fresh to get that perfect rise.
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Salt: Enhances all flavors in the cornbread; don’t skip it!
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Buttermilk: The secret ingredient! It gives moisture and tanginess to your cornbread.
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Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together and provide richness.
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Melted Butter: Adds richness and flavor—because everything is better with butter!
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor; it melts beautifully into the bread.
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Diced Jalapenos: Fresh or pickled, they bring that spicy kick! Adjust based on your heat tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab an oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet and grease it generously with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This dry mix is where all the magic starts.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. The buttermilk helps create that tender crumb we all crave.
Step 4: Fold Everything Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Add shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapenos at this stage for maximum cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Transfer slices onto plates and enjoy warm with butter or honey drizzled on top!
Now you’re not just ready to serve Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread; you’re ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful creation—it’s sure to become a staple at your table!
You Must Know
- This delicious jalapeno cheddar cornbread brings warmth and flavor to any meal
- Its delightful combination of spices and cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser
- Perfect for pairing with chili or enjoying on its own, this cornbread is sure to become a family favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients gradually. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden. Let it cool slightly before serving for best flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out jalapenos for diced bell peppers or add corn kernels for extra sweetness. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or even feta for a tangy twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover jalapeno cheddar cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole loaf in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect texture, avoid overmixing the batter; it should be just combined
- For extra moisture, add a splash of milk if the batter seems too thick
- Always taste your batter before baking to adjust seasoning levels as needed
I remember the first time I made jalapeno cheddar cornbread for my family. They devoured it in minutes, asking me to make it every week since! Their smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
FAQs :
What is Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread?
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is a delicious twist on the classic cornbread recipe. It combines the sweet, crumbly texture of traditional cornbread with spicy jalapenos and savory cheddar cheese. This combination creates a delightful blend of flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether served as a side dish for chili, barbecue, or enjoyed on its own, Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread adds a unique kick to your dining experience.
How do I store leftover Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread?
To store leftover Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, consider placing it in an airtight container and refrigerating it for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for an extended period, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread gluten-free! Simply substitute regular cornmeal and all-purpose flour with certified gluten-free versions. Many grocery stores carry gluten-free cornmeal blends that work perfectly in this recipe. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
What dishes pair well with Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread?
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread pairs wonderfully with various dishes. It’s an excellent side for chili, soups, or stews, adding a spicy kick that complements hearty meals. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or barbecued dishes for an extra flavor boost. For a lighter option, enjoy it with a fresh salad or vegetable platter.
Conclusion for Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread :
In conclusion, Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is a flavorful and versatile dish that everyone will enjoy. Its unique combination of spicy jalapenos and rich cheddar cheese makes it perfect for various occasions. Whether you serve it at family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this cornbread elevates any meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and impress your guests with its delightful taste and texture!

Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread is a scrumptious blend of sweet, buttery cornbread infused with spicy jalapenos and savory sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe delivers a delightful balance of flavors, making it an ideal side for chili or a tasty snack on its own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced fresh or pickled jalapenos
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; stir gently until just combined. Fold in cheddar cheese and jalapenos.
- Pour batter into the greased dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg