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Crispy Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Recipe with Spicy Kick

crispy jalapeño cheddar cornbread - featured image

A crispy cornbread with sharp cheddar cheese and a spicy jalapeño kick, perfect for parties and family gatherings. It features a crunchy crust and moist interior with bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) cornmeal, preferably stone-ground
  • 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar)
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 medium fresh jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for milder heat)
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your cast iron skillet inside while the oven heats to get it nice and hot.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and optional smoked paprika until evenly combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs until frothy. Add buttermilk and melted butter, mixing gently but thoroughly.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
  5. Fold in freshly grated sharp cheddar and diced jalapeños.
  6. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and grease it with butter or oil.
  7. Pour the batter into the skillet, smoothing the top.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be crisp and slightly darker.
  9. Cool slightly before slicing; let rest for 10 minutes to firm up.

Notes

Use freshly grated sharp cheddar for best melt and flavor. Preheat the cast iron skillet to get crispy edges. Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat. If top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Batter can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread, jalapeño, cheddar, spicy, crispy, party food, southern, easy recipe