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If you love cornbread and crave a kick, you’re in for a treat! My Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread recipe is both tasty and simple, perfect for any meal. With crispy edges and a spicy, cheesy center, this dish will steal the show. Follow my step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering cornbread that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your friends. Let’s get baking, shall we?
Why I Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: This cornbread combines the sweetness of honey with the kick of jalapeños, creating a delightful taste experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Pairing: This cornbread is a great side dish for chili, soups, or barbecued meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Texture and Moisture: The combination of buttermilk and melted butter ensures a moist, fluffy cornbread that everyone will love.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
To make Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread, gather these ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup honey
– ¼ cup melted butter
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1-2 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped
– ¼ cup green onions, sliced
Each ingredient plays a key role. The cornmeal gives the cornbread its base. Flour adds structure. Baking powder and baking soda make it rise. Salt enhances flavor. Buttermilk adds moisture and tang. Eggs bind the mix. Honey brings sweetness. Butter makes it rich. Cheddar adds a sharp taste, while jalapeños add heat. Green onions give a fresh crunch.
Possible Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap some ingredients if needed:
– Cornmeal: Use polenta or masa harina for a different texture.
– All-purpose flour: Whole wheat flour works, but it changes the taste.
– Buttermilk: Use regular milk with vinegar or yogurt for a similar tang.
– Honey: Maple syrup or agave syrup can provide sweetness.
– Cheddar: Try pepper jack or gouda for a twist.
– Jalapeños: Use poblano peppers for milder heat or omit them for a plain version.
These swaps keep the spirit of the recipe while allowing flexibility.
Recommended Brands for Key Ingredients
Choosing quality ingredients matters for great taste. Here are my favorite brands:
– Cornmeal: Bob’s Red Mill offers a fine texture and flavor.
– Flour: King Arthur Flour is known for its quality and consistency.
– Baking powder: Clabber Girl is a reliable choice for leavening.
– Buttermilk: Daisy is creamy and adds a nice tang.
– Cheddar cheese: Tillamook sharp cheddar has a bold flavor.
– Honey: Manuka honey provides rich sweetness and health benefits.
Using these brands can elevate your cornbread experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Baking Dish
First, heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even baking. Next, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. This helps the cornbread slide out easily later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients for a Perfect Base
In a large bowl, add the dry ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
Whisk these together until they blend well. This step is key for a light cornbread. Make sure there are no clumps.
Combining Wet Ingredients for Flavor
In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup honey
– ¼ cup melted butter
Whisk these until smooth. The buttermilk and butter add richness. Now, pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the cornbread tough.
Next, fold in the fun stuff:
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1-2 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped
– ¼ cup green onions, sliced
Mix gently to keep the texture light. Now, pour the batter into your greased dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
Your cornbread is almost ready for the oven!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Overmixing for Fluffy Cornbread
To keep your cornbread fluffy, mix carefully. After adding the wet ingredients to the dry, stir just until combined. You want to see a few lumps. If you mix too much, the cornbread can turn out dense. This is a key step for a light and airy texture.
Best Practices for Cutting and Serving
When your cornbread cools for about 10 minutes, it’s easier to cut. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean slices. Serve warm, topped with a pat of butter. Adding chopped green onions on top gives it a fresh look and taste. This makes every slice more inviting.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Add-ins
Want to boost the flavor? Try adding corn kernels or diced bell peppers. You can also mix in spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a kick. If you love cheese, add more cheddar or try pepper jack for extra heat. These small changes can make your cornbread even more special.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Jalapeños: For the best flavor and heat, use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled or canned ones.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cornbread; it should come out clean when it’s fully baked.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Variations
Sweet vs. Savory: Changing the Flavor Profile
You can easily switch the flavor of your cornbread. If you want sweet cornbread, add more honey or sugar. This gives it a nice touch. You can also add fruits like blueberries or cranberries. For a savory twist, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs bring a fresh taste that pairs well with cheese and peppers.
Gluten-Free Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Options
Making a gluten-free version is simple. Swap out the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour. Many brands offer blends that work well in baking. Just make sure to check the label. You can use a mix with xanthan gum for better texture. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish without gluten.
Using Different Cheeses or Peppers
Don’t feel tied to cheddar or jalapeños. You can explore various cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor. Each cheese adds its own twist to the cornbread. For peppers, consider using poblano or banana peppers. These can change the heat level and taste. Experimenting lets you find your favorite mix!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cornbread
After you enjoy your Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread, you may have some left. To store it, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about a week.
Freezing Instructions for Long-term Storage
If you want to save your cornbread for later, freezing is a great option. First, slice the cornbread into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cornbread for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips to Restore Freshness
To enjoy your cornbread again, you need to reheat it properly. If it’s frozen, thaw it in the fridge first. For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cornbread on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Just heat it in short bursts, about 15-20 seconds, until warm. Enjoy your tasty cornbread as if it was just baked!
FAQs
Can I make Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread without buttermilk?
Yes, you can. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes. This will create a good substitute. Your cornbread will still be tasty and moist.
How do I know when my cornbread is done baking?
Check your cornbread after 20 minutes. It should be golden brown on top. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cornbread is done. If it’s still wet, bake for a few more minutes.
What can I serve with Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread?
This cornbread pairs well with chili, soups, or grilled meats. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a pat of butter. For a fun twist, try it with honey or jam for a sweet contrast.
Cheddar jalapeño cornbread combines great flavor with simple steps. We explored ingredients and variations to make it your own. I shared tips to keep your cornbread fluffy and delicious. From storage to serving, you can enjoy this dish for days.
With these ideas, your cornbread will impress everyone. Get ready to bake and enjoy the tasty result
Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
A deliciously moist cornbread with sharp cheddar cheese and a kick of jalapeño.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 200 kcal
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
- 2 large eggs
- 0.25 cup honey
- 0.25 cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped
- 0.25 cup green onions, sliced
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, honey, and melted butter until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and green onions, mixing gently to incorporate.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cornbread cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve warm with a pat of butter on top and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Keyword baking, cheddar, cornbread, jalapeño
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