Jalapeño Cornbread Recipe with Sweet Corn and Spicy Kick

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Ruby Bennett
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Why You’ll Love This Jalapeno Cornbread

Imagine pulling a warm, golden batch of jalapeno cornbread from the oven, filled with that perfect mix of spicy and sweet flavors. This jalapeno cornbread recipe is just right for anyone, from busy parents to baking enthusiasts, because it’s simple to whip up and full of tasty surprises. Let’s dive into what makes it a go-to choice for the spice-seekers and comfort-food lovers out there.

First off, the ease of preparation is a big win you’ll only need basic ingredients and about 15 minutes to get everything ready before it bakes for 20 minutes. On top of that, it’s packed with health benefits like fiber from the cornmeal and vitamins from the fresh jalapenos, which can support your digestive health without skipping on flavor. Plus, it’s super versatile, letting you tweak it for vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie needs, so it fits right into any diet-conscious lifestyle.

This distinctive flavor comes from the fresh jalapenos giving a spicy kick alongside the natural sweetness of cornmeal, making every bite exciting and different from plain old cornbread. Whether you’re a student whipping it up for a quick meal or a senior enjoying a comforting side, this recipe brings people together around the table. It’s that perfect balance of heat and hominess that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Essential Ingredients for Jalapeno Cornbread

Getting the ingredients lined up is the fun part of making jalapeno cornbread, as it sets the stage for that incredible mix of textures and flavors. Below, you’ll find a complete list of everything you need, based on a straightforward recipe that highlights fresh, wholesome items. I always suggest using the best quality you can, like fresh jalapenos for that real spicy punch.

Main Ingredients List

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup almond milk (or any plain unsweetened milk such as soy or cow’s milk)
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup maple syrup (can be substituted with honey)
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil or any neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
  • 4 chopped scallions, with some reserved for topping
  • ¾ cup seeded and diced jalapeño peppers (about 2 to 3 peppers), with some reserved for topping
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the pan
  • Honey butter for serving

These ingredients come together to create a moist, flavorful cornbread that’s not only delicious but also adaptable. For instance, if you’re watching your diet, you can swap in plant-based options to keep things vegan-friendly. Remember, measuring accurately helps ensure your cornbread turns out just right every time.

Special Dietary Options

Adapting this recipe for different needs is easy and keeps it accessible for everyone. Here are some quick swaps to make it work for you:

  • For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax or chia seed mixture and use only plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
  • To go gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking.
  • If you’re aiming for low-calorie, try using less oil or substituting it with applesauce, and cut back on the maple syrup for a lighter touch.

This way, whether you’re a food enthusiast or a busy professional, you can enjoy jalapeno cornbread without any hassle. Check out simple cornbread variations on our site for even more inspiration.

How to Prepare the Perfect Jalapeno Cornbread: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s walk through making this jalapeno cornbread together it’s as easy as mixing a few bowls and popping it in the oven. Start by preheating your oven, which gets everything ready for that perfect bake. You’ll love how straightforward the steps are, even if you’re new to baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet inside to heat up. This helps create a nice, crispy edge.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until they’re well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the almond milk, egg, maple syrup, and oil until smooth and blended.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything comes together don’t overmix to keep it fluffy.
  5. Fold in the chopped scallions, jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese for that extra flavor boost.
  6. Carefully take the hot skillet out of the oven, grease it with the butter, then pour in the batter. Sprinkle the reserved scallions and jalapenos on top for a pretty finish.
  7. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before you slice it up.

Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with baking taking 20 minutes, and it makes about 12 servings. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, an 8×8 inch baking pan works great just grease it well. For more tips on baking, visit our baking tips guide.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Jalapeno Cornbread

One of the best things about this jalapeno cornbread is how you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re avoiding certain ingredients or just want to experiment, these swaps keep the recipe feeling fresh and fun. It’s all about making it your own while keeping that delicious spicy-sweet vibe.

  • Replace the egg with flaxseed or chia seed eggs if you’re following a vegan diet.
  • Swap dairy butter for a plant-based version to handle lactose intolerance.
  • Use milder peppers like poblano instead of jalapenos if you want less heat.
  • Add in corn kernels or diced bell peppers for some extra crunch and sweetness.
  • Incorporate spices like smoked paprika or cumin to mix up the flavors.
  • Opt for dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy without the dairy.

These changes help you enjoy the cornbread no matter your situation, from newlyweds starting out to travelers looking for quick meals. Always test a small batch first to see how the flavors change.

Mastering Jalapeno Cornbread: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, it’s time to level up your jalapeno cornbread game with some pro tips and fun twists. Using room temperature ingredients makes the batter mix smoother and gives you a nicer crumb. Let the batter sit for a minute or two before baking to let the cornmeal soak up moisture fully.

Flavor and Presentation Ideas

For flavor variations, toss in cheddar cheese, green onions, or even smoked jalapenos to add depth. If you like it sweeter, mix in honey or maple syrup for that extra touch. When serving, warm it up with herb butter or pair it with soups and stews it’s a rustic delight. Here’s a quick table of variations to try:

VariationAdd-InBenefit
Cheesy TwistExtra cheddarMelts for gooey goodness
Herb-InfusedFresh cilantro Adds fresh, bright notes
Sweet KickMore maple syrupBalances the spice perfectly

You can also make the batter ahead and chill it for up to 24 hours, or freeze the baked cornbread for up to three months. Thaw and reheat for a quick treat it’s great for meal prep. For more ideas on freezing meals, check out health-focused resources like health benefits of jalapenos.

How to Store Jalapeno Cornbread: Best Practices

Keeping your jalapeno cornbread fresh means it stays tasty for longer, whether you’re saving some for tomorrow or freezing for later. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or pop it in the fridge for up to 5 days to keep that moisture in. Freezing is a smart move too, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a microwave or warm it in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to avoid drying it out. For meal prep, cut it into portions and use parchment paper between slices for easy grabs. Letting it cool fully before storing helps maintain the texture, just like the tips mention for freezing leftovers up to one month.

Jalapeno Cornbread

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeno Cornbread

Can I prepare the jalapeno cornbread batter ahead of time and how should I store it?

Yes, you can prepare the jalapeno cornbread batter a few hours before baking. Store it covered tightly in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out. Before baking, give the batter a gentle stir and pour it into your baking dish. Baking time remains the same. Avoid storing the batter for more than 24 hours, as leavening agents like baking powder may lose effectiveness, resulting in a less fluffy texture.

What are good substitutions if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet for baking jalapeno cornbread?

If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, an 8×8 inch baking pan or a similar oven-safe dish will work well as an alternative. Just make sure to grease it properly to prevent sticking. While the cast-iron skillet helps develop a crispy crust due to its heat retention, a regular pan will still yield moist and flavorful cornbread.

How should I store leftover jalapeno cornbread to keep it fresh?

After baking, let the cornbread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to one month. To reheat frozen slices, microwave for 30 to 45 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Can I use buttermilk instead of almond milk in jalapeno cornbread, and what changes can I expect?

Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for almond milk in this recipe, adding a slight tanginess and tender crumb due to its acidity. When using buttermilk, consider reducing or omitting added acidic ingredients like baking soda to maintain balance. The texture will likely be more traditional and moist, but the recipe hasn’t been specifically tested with buttermilk, so monitor baking times closely.

What are some simple and popular ways to serve jalapeno cornbread?

Jalapeno cornbread pairs wonderfully with dishes like chili, smoky or spicy soups, baked beans, or hearty stews. It can also be served warm with a spread of honey butter for a sweet and spicy contrast. For a casual approach, slice it and offer alongside a fresh salad or grilled meats for added texture and flavor.
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Jalapeno Cornbread

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🌽 Experience the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with this jalapeño cornbread that delivers moist, tender texture and bold flavors in every bite
🌶️ Master the art of Southern baking with this foolproof recipe that combines sweet corn, sharp cheddar, and zesty jalapeños for an irresistible side dish that steals the show

  • Total Time: 35-39 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

– 1 cup cornmeal

– 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– ½ teaspoon sea salt

– ¼ teaspoon baking soda

– 1 cup almond milk (or any plain unsweetened milk such as soy or cow’s milk)

– 1 large egg

– ¼ cup maple syrup (can be substituted with honey)

– ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil or any neutral oil (such as avocado oil)

– 4 chopped scallions, with some reserved for topping

– ¾ cup seeded and diced jalapeño peppers (about 2 to 3 peppers), with some reserved for topping

– ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the pan

– Honey butter for serving

– flax or chia seed mixture

– plant-based milk and butter alternatives

– gluten-free flour blend

– applesauce

Instructions

1-Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet inside to heat up. This helps create a nice, crispy edge.

2-In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until they’re well combined.

3-In another bowl, whisk the almond milk, egg, maple syrup, and oil until smooth and blended.

4-Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything comes together don’t overmix to keep it fluffy.

5-Fold in the chopped scallions, jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese for that extra flavor boost.

6-Carefully take the hot skillet out of the oven, grease it with the butter, then pour in the batter. Sprinkle the reserved scallions and jalapenos on top for a pretty finish.

7-Bake for 20 to 24 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before you slice it up.

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Notes

🔥 For a milder spice level, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, or reduce the amount to 1-2 peppers instead of 2-3
🧊 Let the cornbread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing – this allows the structure to set and prevents it from falling apart
🧊 Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to one month and reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-24 minutes
  • Category: Bread/Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American/Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/12 of cornbread)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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