Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Cheddar and Jalapeno Cornmeal Muffins

This flavorful recipe yields 12 servings of cheesy, slightly spicy cornmeal muffins, perfect for any occasion. The sharp Cheddar cheese and kick of jalapeno create a delightful combination of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2 mozzarella sticks, each cut into 6 pieces
• 12 thin slices jalapeno pepper (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease or line 12 muffin cups with paper liners to prepare them for the batter.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients together until well blended.

Step 3: Add the honey, egg, milk, and vegetable oil to the dry mixture. Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a smooth batter.

Step 4: Gently fold in the shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped jalapenos, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.

Step 6: Insert one piece of mozzarella into the center of each muffin and top with a thin slice of jalapeno pepper (optional) for an extra kick.

Step 7: Place the muffin tray in the oven and bake for approximately 14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 254
• Fat: 13g (17% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
• Cholesterol: 38mg (13% DV)
• Sodium: 526mg (23% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% DV)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 8g (16% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)
• Calcium: 272mg (21% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 108mg (2% DV)

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

Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins are a delicious and spicy twist on the classic American cornbread. Combining the sweetness of cornbread with the heat of jalapeos and the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, these muffins are an irresistible treat for those who enjoy bold flavors. However, beyond their great taste, these muffins have a history, regional significance, and are distinct from other types of cornbread. Lets explore the origins and unique features of this dish.

History of Cornbread

The origin of cornbread can be traced back to Native American culture, where corn was a staple ingredient in their diet. Early settlers in America learned from the indigenous peoples how to grind corn into a flour to make simple, versatile bread. Over time, cornbread became a foundational part of Southern cuisine in the United States, where it was prepared in various forms such as baked, fried, or steamed. The addition of cheese and spicy ingredients like jalapeos reflects the contemporary adaptations of cornbread, where regional flavors and local ingredients are often incorporated into traditional dishes.

Regional Variations

Cornbread is most commonly associated with the Southern United States, where it is often served as a side dish to complement barbecue, fried chicken, or stews. However, regional variations abound. In the Southwest, where spicy foods dominate the local cuisine, ingredients like jalapeos, chiles, and cheddar cheese are frequently incorporated into cornbread recipes. These muffins are a perfect example of the Southwests culinary influence on a classic Southern dish. While traditional cornbread might be made with minimal ingredients like cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk, the addition of jalapeos and cheese gives these muffins a flavor profile that is both bold and comforting.

Distinctive Features

What sets Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins apart from other cornbread varieties is the combination of flavors and textures. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a creamy, salty element, while the jalapeos provide a spicy kick. A unique twist in this recipe is the hidden chunk of mozzarella cheese inside each muffin, giving it an unexpected, melty surprise. This texture contrast, with the crumbly, slightly sweet cornbread exterior and the gooey mozzarella center, makes these muffins distinct from more traditional, drier cornbreads.

Where Are They Usually Served?

These spicy, cheesy cornbread muffins are typically served as a side dish at informal gatherings or family meals. They pair wonderfully with chili, barbecued meats, or a hearty salad. In the Southern United States, cornbread is a staple at many dinner tables, and these muffins would fit right in with dishes like pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, or fried chicken. Additionally, they are a great accompaniment to a warm bowl of soup, adding both flavor and texture to the meal.

Interesting Facts

• Cornbread has been an essential part of Southern American cuisine for centuries, with variations found in nearly every state.
• The addition of jalapeos to cornbread is a nod to the growing popularity of Southwestern flavors in modern American cuisine.
• Cheddar cheese and jalapeos are a classic combination, often used in other Southwestern dishes like queso and nachos.
• While cornbread is traditionally baked in a cast-iron skillet, these muffins offer a convenient and portable option, perfect for picnics or potlucks.
• The hidden mozzarella center in these muffins is a fun, unexpected twist, adding both flavor and moisture.

Whether youre looking to spice up your cornbread or introduce a new flavor combination to your family dinner, Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins are a delicious choice that blends tradition with innovation. Their blend of sharp cheese, spicy jalapeos, and sweet cornbread makes them a must-try for anyone who enjoys a little kick in their baked goods!

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