The aroma of freshly baked jalapeno cheddar cornbread wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with its warm, buttery scent and the promise of a spicy kick. You can practically hear it calling your name, ready to be slathered in melted butter or paired with a hearty chili on a chilly evening.
This delightful cornbread has been my go-to recipe for family gatherings. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they devoured it in minutes and convinced me to make it every weekend. With its crispy edges and soft, cheesy center, jalapeno cheddar cornbread is perfect for any occasion where deliciousness is required.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This jalapeno cheddar cornbread recipe is quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of spicy jalapenos and rich cheddar creates an irresistible flavor explosion
- Its golden crust and fluffy interior make it visually striking on any table
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a snack, this cornbread fits seamlessly into any meal plan
I remember the joy on my family’s faces when they took their first bites of this cornbread; it was a moment of pure bliss that I’ll always cherish.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Cornmeal: Opt for medium-ground cornmeal for that classic cornbread texture and taste.
-
All-Purpose Flour: A must for balancing the cornmeal’s density, helping create a fluffy texture.
-
Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for that perfect rise; nobody likes flat cornbread!
-
Salt: Just enough to enhance all those amazing flavors without overwhelming them.
-
Milk: Whole milk adds richness; you can substitute with buttermilk if you want extra tanginess.
-
Eggs: Use large eggs to bind everything together and add moisture.
-
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that complements the heat of jalapenos.
-
Jalapenos: Fresh or pickled, depending on your heat preference; don’t forget to remove seeds for milder heat!
-
Butter: Melted butter not only adds flavor but also contributes to that lovely golden crust.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick spray or butter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cornbread.
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth before gently folding into the dry mixture to create the batter.
Toss in Cheese and Jalapenos: Carefully fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapenos into your batter. Avoid overmixing—keeping some lumps ensures your cornbread stays light!
Pour and Bake!: Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool & Serve!: Let the cornbread cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Serve warm with pats of butter or as a fantastic sidekick to soups or stews.
Enjoying homemade jalapeno cheddar cornbread is always an adventure worth sharing!
You Must Know
- Jalapeno cheddar cornbread is the ultimate comfort food
- It pairs perfectly with chili or serves as a delightful snack
- Its moist texture and cheesy goodness will leave your taste buds dancing
- Plus, the right balance of spice can elevate any gathering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Mix dry ingredients first, followed by wet ones, and then fold in the cheese and jalapenos for a delightful blend.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out jalapenos for diced bell peppers or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. You can even mix in some corn kernels for added sweetness!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 15 seconds or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect jalapeno cheddar cornbread, use fresh jalapenos for heat and flavor
- Let your batter rest before baking to enhance texture
- Always check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center
I’ll never forget the first time I made jalapeno cheddar cornbread for my friends. They devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice! Their laughter filled the kitchen, making it an unforgettable evening.

FAQ
What can I serve with jalapeno cheddar cornbread?
Serve it alongside chili, soups, or grilled meats for a perfect meal pairing.
Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends for a tasty alternative.
How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Reduce jalapeno quantity or remove seeds to make the cornbread milder and family-friendly.
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Jalapeno cheddar cornbread is a mouthwatering blend of spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese, enveloped in a fluffy, buttery cornbread. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this delightful dish is easy to make and complements soups, stews, or can be enjoyed alone with a pat of butter. With its crispy edges and cheesy center, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced fresh jalapenos (seeds removed)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, and eggs; whisk until smooth.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture gently until just combined.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and diced jalapenos without overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares; serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (85g)
- Calories: 211
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 305mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg




Leave a Comment