Why Make This Recipe

Southern Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Bake is a delightful twist on traditional cornbread. It combines the comforting taste of cornbread with the bold flavors of cheddar cheese and jalapeños. This dish is perfect as a side for your favorite meals or as a standalone snack. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just want to enjoy a tasty treat at home, this cornbread bake is sure to please everyone.

How to Make Southern Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Bake

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1-2 jalapeños, diced
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and vegetable oil.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Fold in the cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Southern Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Bake

This cornbread bake is great on its own or served alongside chili, barbecued meats, or soups. Cut it into squares and let everyone enjoy a warm piece straight from the baking dish. For an extra treat, you can add a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey on top.

How to Store Southern Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Bake

To store leftovers, let the cornbread cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Southern Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Bake

• For extra spice, use more jalapeños or try adding a pinch of chili powder to the batter.
• Make sure not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack, for a fun twist.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or even cooked bacon for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk. For a buttermilk substitute, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or deseed the jalapeños before adding them.

Can I make this cornbread bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it well before pouring it into the baking dish and baking it.