Jalapeno cheddar cornbread elevates classic cornbread through spicy peppers and sharp cheese creating irresistible side dish perfect for chili, barbecue, or holiday meals. This moist, flavorful bread balances sweet corn flavor with jalapeño heat and melted cheddar richness in every bite. The key to exceptional jalapeno cheddar cornbread lies in proper ingredient ratios for tender crumb, strategic pepper distribution for consistent heat, and baking technique that creates golden crust while maintaining moist interior.
How to Make Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Essential Ingredients
For Cornbread (Serves 8-10):
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium or fine grind)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and diced (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/4 cup frozen or canned corn kernels (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional for extra sweetness)
Optional additions:
- 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
Preparation and Baking Instructions
Batter preparation (15 minutes):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Grease 9×9 inch baking pan or 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter
- If using cast iron, place greased skillet in oven while preheating
- Whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda
- In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until combined
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined
- Fold in shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, and corn if using
- Don’t overmix – lumpy batter is acceptable and preferable
Baking process (25-30 minutes):
- Pour batter into prepared pan or hot cast iron skillet
- Spread evenly and smooth top with spatula
- Optionally sprinkle additional cheese on top
- Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
- Top should spring back when lightly pressed
- Cool in pan 10 minutes before cutting
- Serve warm with butter or honey
Cast iron method benefits:
- Preheating skillet creates crispy bottom crust
- Even heat distribution ensures consistent baking
- Dramatic presentation serving directly from skillet
- Enhanced browning and flavor development
Cast Iron Skillet Advantages
Temperature retention: Cast iron maintains consistent heat creating superior crust and even baking throughout.
Crispy bottom: Preheated skillet creates restaurant-quality crispy bottom crust impossible to achieve in regular pans.
Presentation value: Serving cornbread directly from beautiful cast iron skillet adds rustic charm to table.
Seasoning enhancement: Well-seasoned cast iron imparts subtle flavor while preventing sticking naturally.
Conclusion
Jalapeno cheddar cornbread combines classic comfort food with bold Southwestern flavors creating versatile side dish suitable for countless meals. Success depends on balanced ingredient ratios, proper mixing technique that maintains tender crumb, and careful baking that develops golden crust while preserving moist interior. Whether serving with chili, barbecue, or holiday dinners, this flavorful cornbread delivers satisfying heat and cheese in every bite. Master this recipe to add crowd-pleasing bread that elevates everyday meals and special occasions alike.
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