cheddar jalapeno cornbread
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup cornmeal
½ cup granulated white sugar
3 teaspoon baking powder
¾ cup milk
2 eggs
¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder and sugar.
Add milk, eggs and vegetable oil/butter to the dry ingredients and mix to fully combine.
Butter an 8"x8" baking dish. Pour batter into the dish evenly.
Bake for 20 minutes until golden and a toothpick runs through the bread and comes out clean.
Let me know if you try it!
Cheddar jalapeno cornbread is a beloved Southern-inspired dish that balances the comforting sweetness of cornbread with the sharp creaminess of cheddar cheese and the fiery kick of jalapenos. While the original recipe calls for basic pantry staples like all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder, the addition of garlic powder and onion powder enhances the depth of flavor, making this side dish truly memorable. For best results, it's important to use freshly ground cornmeal to achieve that signature gritty texture and natural sweetness. The jalapenos can be adjusted based on heat preference—removing the seeds will reduce spiciness, while leaving them intact will give a bolder flavor. Incorporating sharp cheddar cheese not only adds a savory richness but also helps retain moisture in the bread. Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes allows the cornbread to develop a golden crust while remaining moist inside. Testing with a toothpick ensures perfect doneness without overbaking. Using an 8"x8" baking dish provides an ideal thickness for even cooking. This cheddar jalapeno cornbread pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes such as chili, barbecue, or grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to family dinners or potlucks. For a twist, consider topping the batter with extra cheese or finely diced jalapenos before baking. To enhance nutritional value, some cooks substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or add corn kernels for added texture and sweetness. Overall, this recipe is a quick, straightforward way to create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing cornbread that embraces classic Southern flavors with a spicy, cheesy upgrade.
