Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins Recipe

Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

This savory cornbread muffin recipe combines the comforting taste of cornbread with a spicy kick from jalapenos and a rich, creamy texture from sour cream and creamed corn. Perfect for a side dish or a snack!

Ingredients

  • 2 (8.5 ounce) boxes corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
  • 2/3 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup creamed corn
  • 1/4 cup minced pickled jalapeno peppers
  • 4 ounces Cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, cut into 12 thin slices (optional)
  • Softened butter (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease 12 standard muffin cups or line them with paper liners.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, milk, eggs, sour cream, creamed corn, pickled jalapenos, and grated Cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Spoon the muffin batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups.

4. Place a slice of fresh jalapeno on top of each muffin for an extra touch of spice (optional, but highly recommended!).

5. Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and spring back when gently touched. The edges should be slightly crisp.

6. As soon as the muffins are out of the oven, gently press down the center of each muffin to flatten the tops slightly for an even finish.

7. Serve the muffins warm with a little softened butter on top, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 206
Total Fat 10g (12% DV)
Saturated Fat 4g (19% DV)
Cholesterol 57mg (19% DV)
Sodium 346mg (15% DV)
Total Carbohydrate 24g (9% DV)
Dietary Fiber 2g (6% DV)
Total Sugars 8g
Protein 6g (13% DV)
Vitamin C 1mg (1% DV)
Calcium 124mg (10% DV)
Iron 1mg (8% DV)
Potassium 91mg (2% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins

The Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins trace their roots to the American South, where cornbread has long been a staple of home cooking. Cornbread itself dates back centuries, influenced by Native American maize-based recipes and later adapted by settlers using simple pantry ingredients. The Jiffy brand, introduced in the 1930s, revolutionized cornbread by offering a convenient, ready-to-use mix, which quickly became a household favorite. The addition of jalapenos and cheddar reflects a more modern, Tex-Mex twist, infusing the traditional cornbread with bold, zesty flavors while retaining its soft, moist texture.

Regional Characteristics

These muffins are most commonly associated with Southern and Southwestern cuisine in the United States. In Texas, New Mexico, and other Southwestern states, the use of jalapenos and spicy ingredients in breads and muffins is widespread, giving this cornbread variant a characteristic heat that contrasts the sweetness of the corn. While Southern cornbread is often denser and cooked in a skillet, these muffins are lighter and portable, ideal for modern mealtime adaptations. Creamed corn and sour cream are frequently added in Southern kitchens to enhance moisture and richness, making each bite satisfyingly tender.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike standard cornbread muffins, which are typically sweet or slightly savory, Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins combine multiple flavor layers: the tang of pickled jalapenos, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the subtle sweetness of creamed corn. This sets them apart from basic corn muffins or even chili cornbread, which may include peppers but often lack cheese and the creamy texture provided by sour cream. The use of both fresh and pickled jalapenos adds a complexity of spice not commonly found in traditional recipes.

Where Youll Typically Find Them

These muffins are commonly served as a side dish alongside barbecue, chili, or hearty Southern dinners. They are also popular at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday feasts, where their bold flavors make them a standout addition. Restaurants specializing in Southern or Southwestern cuisine often include them on menus as a complimentary bread option, enhancing the overall meal experience. Their individual muffin form makes them convenient for grab-and-go meals or picnic settings.

Interesting Facts

  • The combination of cheese and jalapeno in cornbread is a relatively recent innovation, gaining popularity in the late 20th century as fusion cuisine spread across the United States.
  • Jiffy corn muffin mix was originally sold as a simple baking shortcut, yet it became a canvas for countless creative recipes, including this spicy, cheesy version.
  • These muffins are versatile: they can be served warm with butter, alongside soups and stews, or even sliced in half for a spicy breakfast sandwich.
  • The recipes blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is intentionally balanced, demonstrating how American home cooks have long embraced flavor experimentation while honoring traditional bases.

FAQ about Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins Recipe

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid excess moisture.

Yes, these muffins freeze well. Place the cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Yes, you can omit the pickled jalapenos if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also substitute them with fresh jalapenos if you want a fresher, spicier kick.

Yes, you can substitute the Jiffy cornbread mix with a homemade cornbread batter. Just ensure that the consistency is similar to the one from the box mix. If needed, adjust the amount of milk and eggs according to your homemade recipe.

Definitely! You can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. Keep in mind that using a milder cheese may change the flavor slightly.

To make the muffins spicier, you can increase the amount of pickled jalapenos or add a small amount of finely chopped fresh jalapeno. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the batter.

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to stir the batter again before spooning it into the muffin cups and baking as instructed.

Yes, it's recommended to grease the muffin tin or line the cups with paper liners to prevent the muffins from sticking. You can also use non-stick spray for easy removal.

These muffins pair wonderfully with soups, chili, or as a side dish for grilled meats. They are also delicious on their own, especially when served warm with a pat of butter.

Comments

Sharon Green

01/16/2025 01:30:51 PM

This dish combines spicy cheddar cheese with a hint of sweetness from the cornbread. While it is carb-heavy, the recipe doesn't call for a whole stick of butter, which is why I decided to give it a shot. I only used butter to grease the muffin pan, and the muffins came out perfectly with a slight crispiness on the bottoms. They remain moist and delicious for several days. I'm glad I tried this recipe, and it's also very budget-friendly.

Maria Martin

09/29/2023 02:43:05 PM

My family, usually resistant to trying new things, absolutely adored this dish. Not a single bite was left uneaten, and they even asked for seconds. This recipe is definitely a winner in our household.