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Flavorful Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins

Kathleen R. Coffey
Spicy, cheesy, and perfectly moist, these Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins are a quick, flavorful addition to any meal or snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 9 muffins

Equipment

  • 1 × 12-cup muffin tin
  • 3 × medium mixing bowls
  • 1 × whisk
  • 1 × set measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 × Wire cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup cornmeal
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese divided
  • 1/4 cup melted and cooled butter
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 green jalapeño thinly sliced

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking from the moment the muffins go in.
    While the oven is warming, prepare your muffin tin: lightly grease each cup with butter or nonstick cooking spray, or line with paper muffin cups for easy removal and cleanup.
    Ensuring the tin is ready ahead of time prevents sticking and keeps the muffins’ bottoms golden and intact.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
    Use a whisk or fork to blend the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
    Stir in ¼ cup of the grated cheddar cheese, folding gently to incorporate.
    This step helps the cheese integrate into the batter, providing pockets of melty, flavorful goodness in every bite.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or a large measuring jug, whisk together melted butter, milk (or buttermilk), and vegetable oil.
    The combination of these fats adds moisture and tenderness. Next, slightly beat the eggs and add them to the wet mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
    A smooth, cohesive mixture ensures your muffins rise evenly and maintain a tender texture.
  • Fold Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
    Using a spatula or fork, gently fold the mixtures together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense and tough.
    The batter should be slightly sticky and airy, with small pockets of flour still visible.
    This gentle folding creates a light texture while ensuring even distribution of all ingredients.
  • Fill Muffin Cups: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, portion the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
    This leaves enough room for the muffins to rise without overflowing, while maintaining a uniform shape.
  • Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the tops of the muffins.
    Add a few jalapeño slices to each muffin, adjusting the quantity to your preferred spice level.
    This not only enhances flavor but creates an appealing, visually inviting presentation.
  • Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes.
    The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
    Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the muffins.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5–10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
    Cooling prevents soggy bottoms and helps the muffins maintain their structure.
    Once cooled slightly, they’re ready to enjoy as a savory snack, breakfast side, or paired with soups and salads.
  • Optional Serving and Storage Tips: For a warm, fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat muffins briefly in the microwave or oven.
    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or frozen for up to a month.
    To reheat frozen muffins, thaw overnight and warm in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore freshness.

Notes

  • Adjust the spiciness by removing seeds from the jalapeño for a milder flavor.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a slightly tangy, richer taste.
  • A sharp cheddar adds more depth; mild cheddar will produce a gentler flavor.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure tender, fluffy muffins.
  • Muffins are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container or frozen for future use.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder.