Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins: A Family Favorite

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through the kitchen, and these Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins take that magic to a whole new level. When I first made these muffins, I was looking for a side dish that could stand up to a hearty chili. Little did I know, they would become a staple in our household! The kids couldn’t get enough of the cheesy, spicy goodness, and my husband raved about how well they complemented his favorite soups. Every bite bursts with flavor, making these muffins the perfect snack or side for any meal. Let me share this delightful recipe with you!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix well until combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, corn kernels, and cilantro until evenly distributed.
5. Fill Muffin Tin:
   Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
7. Cool:
   Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Calories per muffin: 220 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with butter for a delicious treat.
• Pair with soups or stews for a hearty meal.
• Enjoy as a snack with a dollop of sour cream.
• Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by leaving some seeds in the jalapeños or using fewer jalapeños.
2. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick.
3. Add Ins: Consider adding diced red bell peppers or green onions for extra flavor and color.
4. Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
5. Reheating: Reheat muffins in the microwave for a quick snack.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Cornbread Muffins: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Sweet Cornbread Muffins: Substitute some of the cheddar with honey for a sweeter version.
• Savory Spinach and Cheese Muffins: Fold in some fresh spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Mexican Street Corn Muffins: Mix in some crumbled cotija cheese and lime zest for a street corn-inspired muffin.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these muffins alongside classic dishes like chili, barbecue, or fried chicken.
• They make a great addition to a brunch spread, paired with eggs and bacon.
• Use them as a base for sliders or mini sandwiches filled with pulled pork or chicken.
• Crumble them over salads for an added crunch.
• Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an appetizer option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These muffins freeze well. After cooling completely, place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds until warm.
• Storage: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
   Yes! They can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
2. What can I use instead of jalapeños?
   You can use bell peppers for a milder flavor or omit them entirely.
3. Can I use frozen corn kernels?
   Yes! Frozen corn works perfectly; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.
4. What type of cheese works best?
   Cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a spicy cheese.
5. Can I make mini muffins?
   Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.
6. How can I tell when they are done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready!
7. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, all the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
8. Can I skip the sugar?
   You can reduce the sugar for a less sweet muffin, but it may affect the texture.
9. Do I need to let the batter rest?
   It’s not necessary, but letting it sit for 10 minutes can help with texture.
10. Can I add other spices?
    Definitely! Consider adding cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins are not just a delightful addition to your meal; they embody warmth, comfort, and a little bit of adventure. Their cheesy, spicy kick makes them versatile enough to stand alone or accompany your favorite dishes. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, enjoying them as a snack, or pairing them with a hearty soup, these muffins are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this mouthwatering treat that will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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