Ah, the humble muffin. Not just any muffin, though—jalapeno cheddar cornbread muffins, the kind that might just make you question why you ever settled for plain cornbread.
These little bites of joy pack a punch of spicy jalapenos and melty cheddar, making each crumb a delightful surprise. Imagine biting into their golden crust, with just the right amount of heat to warm your soul on a chilly day.
They’re like a cozy sweater for your taste buds!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and position a rack in the center. Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lightly greasing it or lining it with muffin liners, using 9 cups for larger muffins or all 12 for smaller ones.
- Halve the jalapeño lengthwise and remove the seeds. Slice the pepper crosswise into thin half-moon shapes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt by whisking them together.
- Stir in the milk, lightly beaten egg, and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Fold in the grated cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeños, keeping a few jalapeño slices aside for topping.
- Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin wells. Place a reserved jalapeño slice or two on top of each muffin.
- Bake the muffins for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly in the tin before removing and serving.
Ingredients
- 1 large jalapeño
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (approximately 1 cup)
FAQ
- Can I adjust the spice level of the muffins?
- Absolutely! If you prefer a milder spice level, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño used or remove all the seeds. For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapeño or keeping some of the seeds.
- Is it necessary to use sharp cheddar cheese?
- While sharp cheddar is recommended for its rich flavor, you can substitute it with other types of cheese like mild cheddar or even pepper jack if you prefer. However, the overall taste profile might change slightly.
- Can these muffins be made ahead of time?
- Yes, these muffins are perfect for making ahead. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for about 20 seconds.
- What dishes pair well with jalapeño cheddar corn muffins?
- These savory muffins make an excellent accompaniment to dishes like chili or pulled pork, enhancing their flavors with the spicy and cheesy notes.
- Can I use a different type of flour instead of all-purpose?
- You can experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Tips
- Jalapeño Preparation: For a more pronounced jalapeño presence, slice the pepper into half-moon shapes rather than dicing it. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures the pepper’s flavor stands out in each muffin.
- Maximize Muffin Tin Fill: Don’t hesitate to fill the muffin wells generously. These muffins will rise well but are unlikely to overflow, allowing you to make the most of the batter.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Adding a few slivers of jalapeño on top of each muffin before baking not only enhances the presentation but also provides an additional spicy kick.
- Sugar Adjustment: Consider reducing the sugar to let the savory flavors of cheddar and jalapeño shine even more prominently. This adjustment complements savory dishes like chili or pulled pork beautifully.
Equipment
- Muffin tin (12-cup standard size)
- Muffin liners (for lining the muffin tin)
- Whisk (for combining ingredients)
- Oven thermometer (optional, to ensure accurate oven temperature)
