Ultimate Savory Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: Crispy Edges, Soft Center, Perfect Spice

Discover the ultimate homemade savory cornbread experience with this incredible Cheddar Cheese Jalapeno Cornbread recipe. Crafted from scratch, this cornbread masterfully balances rich, sharp cheddar with a subtle kick of jalapeno, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Imagine golden-brown, crispy edges giving way to a wonderfully soft and moist center – it’s truly the best cheesy cornbread with a delightful twist that will elevate any meal.

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This recipe was originally published in 2020 and has since been updated with enhanced details, tips, and improved instructions for an even better baking experience.

Cornbread holds a special place in the heart of Southern cuisine and is truly one of the most versatile side dishes to complement a wide array of meals. Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, its comforting texture and hearty flavor make it a perennial favorite. While many adore the classic, slightly sweet taste of Jiffy Cornbread, this recipe dives into the savory realm, offering a sophisticated blend of flavors that will quickly become your new go-to. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, simply add ⅓ to ½ cup of sugar to the batter – the beauty of homemade cornbread is its adaptability!

Customizing the Heat: How Spicy Do You Like It?

Jalapenos are the star of this savory cornbread, offering a fantastic balance of fresh flavor and a gentle warmth. In the world of chili peppers, jalapenos are generally considered fairly mild, making them an excellent choice for adding a pleasant “kick” without overwhelming the other delicious flavors in your dish. Their vibrant green hue and crisp texture also add an appealing visual and textural element to the cornbread.

The heat level in a jalapeno primarily resides in its white inner membrane and, to a lesser extent, in the seeds. For this recipe, we typically remove both the seeds and the membrane to achieve a milder, more universally enjoyable spice level. However, if you’re a true heat-seeker and crave more fire in your cornbread, you have a few easy options: simply leave some or all of the membrane intact when chopping your jalapenos, or even include some of the seeds. Each choice will progressively increase the heat, allowing you to tailor the spiciness precisely to your preference.

A personal touch I love is to add a thin jalapeno slice to the top of each serving before baking. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also ensures that every piece gets a little extra burst of fresh jalapeno flavor and a touch more heat right where you bite into it. This step is entirely optional, but highly recommended for those who appreciate that extra zing.

Should you desire an even bolder spice profile, consider substituting jalapenos with a hotter pepper, such as a serrano. Serranos are typically 2-5 times hotter than jalapenos, providing a more intense heat experience. Always handle hotter peppers with gloves to avoid skin irritation, and be mindful of your spice tolerance when making substitutions.

Crafting the Perfect Loaf: Step-by-Step Instructions for Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread

Creating this savory cornbread masterpiece is surprisingly straightforward, yielding impressive results with minimal effort. The key to its irresistible texture and flavor lies in a few simple steps and thoughtful attention to detail. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions, along with helpful tips to ensure your cornbread turns out perfectly every time. Full measurements and additional notes are available in the recipe card at the end of this article.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust and ensuring the cornbread cooks evenly throughout.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. For a vibrant flavor and subtle heat, add the finely chopped jalapenos (with seeds removed, or kept for extra spice as per your preference) and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. This ensures even distribution of the cheese and jalapenos throughout the batter.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Next, create a well in the center of your dry mixture. Pour in the large eggs, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and the buttermilk. Using a spoon or spatula, gently stir these wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. It’s vital not to overmix the batter; over-mixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough, dense cornbread with a crumbly texture and large cracks in the crust. Mix only until no streaks of dry ingredients remain.
4. Heat the Skillet: This step is key for that signature crispy crust! Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet on your stovetop over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely and then swirl it around to generously grease the entire skillet, making sure to coat the edges as well. The hot, buttered skillet provides an instant sizzle to the batter, creating an incredibly delicious crispy bottom. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can skip this step and grease your chosen baking dish in step 5.
5. Add the Batter: Once the cast iron skillet is piping hot, carefully pour the prepared cornbread mixture directly into it. The batter should sizzle as it hits the hot butter, a sign that you’re on your way to a perfectly crispy crust. If you are not using a cast iron skillet, simply pour the batter into the greased baking dish or cake pan you are using.
6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet (or baking dish) directly from the stovetop to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. The cornbread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Essential Ingredients: Choosing Your Cornmeal

The foundation of any great cornbread is, naturally, the cornmeal itself. For this Savory Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread, you will need yellow cornmeal. Yellow cornmeal typically has a slightly sweeter, richer flavor and a coarser texture compared to white cornmeal, contributing to the rustic charm and appealing golden hue of the final product. Along with the cornmeal, you’ll combine it with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to create the perfect batter.

When selecting your cornmeal, consider the grind. A medium-grind yellow cornmeal is generally preferred for cornbread as it offers a pleasant, toothsome texture without being too gritty or too fine. Fine-grind cornmeal can result in a cakier texture, while very coarse grinds might feel too rough. Experiment to find your personal preference, but a standard medium grind will yield excellent results here.

The Convenience of Self-Rising Cornmeal

For those seeking a convenient shortcut without sacrificing quality, self-rising cornmeal mix is an absolute game-changer. This versatile product ingeniously combines cornmeal with self-rising all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sometimes salt, eliminating the need to measure these individual dry ingredients. Using a self-rising mix can produce unbelievably amazing cornbread, known for its consistent rise and tender crumb.

If you opt for this convenient route, you will need 2 cups of self-rising cornmeal mix for this recipe. Just remember to omit the separate measurements for all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt listed in the ingredient list, as they are already incorporated into the mix. You can often find self-rising cornmeal mix in the baking aisle of your local grocery store, or easily purchase it online; it’s available here on Amazon for your convenience.

The Cheese Factor: Selecting Your Cheddar

The addition of cheese is what truly elevates this cornbread from simply savory to spectacularly indulgent. For this recipe, I highly recommend using sharp cheddar cheese. Its robust, tangy flavor stands up beautifully to the cornmeal and the slight heat of the jalapenos, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying taste experience. Sharp cheddar also melts wonderfully, providing pockets of creamy, salty goodness throughout the cornbread.

However, the beauty of cooking is customization! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or even a combination to suit your palate. Here are a few ideas:

• Medium or Mild Cheddar: If you prefer a less intense cheese flavor, these are excellent alternatives.
• Monterey Jack: Offers a milder, creamier melt and can help balance the spice.
• Pepper Jack: For an extra layer of heat and a fantastic melt, Pepper Jack is a superb choice.
• Colby Jack: A blend that provides a mild, buttery flavor and a good melt.
• Smoked Gouda: For a more gourmet twist, smoked gouda can add a rich, smoky depth.

Whether you choose to shred your own cheese from a block or use pre-shredded varieties, both will work. Shredding your own often yields a creamier melt as pre-shredded cheeses sometimes contain anti-caking agents that can slightly alter their melting properties. Regardless of your choice, ensure your cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the batter for optimal blending.

Fresh vs. Jarred Jalapenos: What’s Best for Your Cornbread?

When it comes to incorporating jalapenos into your cornbread, you have the flexibility to use either fresh jalapenos or those from a jar. Both options will infuse your cornbread with flavor, but they offer slightly different characteristics.

• Fresh Jalapenos: Using fresh jalapenos provides a crisp, bright, and vibrant flavor. They contribute a slight crunch and a clean, green pepper taste that beautifully complements the richness of the cheddar and cornmeal. When using fresh, you have complete control over the heat level by deciding how much of the membrane and seeds to remove. This is often the preferred choice for those who appreciate the purest, most authentic jalapeno flavor.
• Jarred Jalapenos: Pickled jalapenos, typically found in jars, offer a tangier, slightly softer texture. Their vinegary brine adds a pleasant acidity that can cut through the richness of the cheese and butter, providing a different dimension of flavor. Jarred jalapenos are also incredibly convenient – they’re already sliced or diced, and their heat level tends to be more consistent. Ensure you drain them well before adding them to your batter to avoid excess moisture.

Ultimately, the choice between fresh and jarred depends on your preference for flavor and convenience. For the most vibrant and customizable spice, fresh is often recommended. For a quicker, tangier option, jarred jalapenos are a fantastic alternative.

Optimal Baking Temperature for Perfect Cornbread

Achieving the perfect texture in your cornbread – golden, crispy edges and a tender, moist interior – largely depends on baking it at the correct temperature. For this Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread, the ideal oven temperature is 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

Baking at a higher temperature, such as 400°F, is crucial for several reasons:

1. Crispy Crust: The intense heat quickly sets the exterior of the cornbread, especially when poured into a preheated cast iron skillet, creating that coveted crispy crust that is so characteristic of traditional Southern cornbread.
2. Quick Rise: High heat helps the baking powder react rapidly, giving the cornbread a quick and impressive rise before the structure fully sets, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture.
3. Even Cooking: While it might seem counterintuitive, a slightly higher temperature can actually promote more even cooking, particularly in a cast iron skillet, as the heat penetrates the batter quickly and uniformly.

Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F before placing the cornbread inside. An underheated oven can lead to a dense, pale cornbread lacking the desired crispy texture. Always trust your oven thermometer, and adjust baking times as needed based on your specific appliance.

The Cast Iron Secret: Why a Skillet Makes All the Difference

When it comes to baking truly exceptional cornbread, especially one with a crispy, golden crust, using a cast iron skillet is, in my firm opinion, non-negotiable. It’s not just a traditional preference; there’s a science to why cast iron delivers superior results.

Cast iron is renowned for its incredible heat retention and even heat distribution. When you preheat your cast iron skillet and add butter to it before pouring in the cornbread batter, the hot metal creates an immediate sizzle. This rapid exposure to high heat on the bottom of the batter cooks and crisps the exterior instantly, forming that glorious, crunchy crust that other pans simply can’t replicate. Furthermore, cast iron cooks the cornbread more evenly from all sides, preventing dry spots and ensuring a uniformly tender interior.

This method is deeply rooted in Southern culinary tradition, where a piping hot, buttered cast iron skillet is considered essential for authentic cornbread. The rich, slightly nutty flavor that develops from baking in a seasoned cast iron pan is also unmatched, adding another layer of deliciousness to your savory cornbread.

However, if a cast iron skillet isn’t available, don’t despair! You can still make this delicious recipe. While you might miss out on the ultra-crispy crust, the flavor will still be fantastic. An 8×8 inch baking dish or cake pan will work perfectly as an alternative. Just ensure you grease it thoroughly with butter before adding your batter to prevent sticking and encourage some browning.

While an alternative pan will certainly produce tasty cornbread, the distinct texture and enhanced flavor achieved with a cast iron skillet truly make it the superior choice for this recipe. It’s a small investment that will pay dividends in deliciousness for years to come.

Buttermilk Boost: Making Your Own Buttermilk Substitute

Buttermilk is a crucial ingredient in this recipe, contributing to the cornbread’s tender crumb and tangy flavor profile. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, ensuring a light and airy texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, there’s no need to run to the store! You can easily make your own substitute at home with just two common ingredients.

To create a homemade buttermilk substitute, simply combine 1 ½ cups of regular milk (dairy or non-dairy both work) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Stir them together gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the milk will curdle slightly and thicken, mimicking the consistency and acidity of true buttermilk. Once it looks slightly clabbered, it’s ready to use in your recipe.

For more detailed information and additional tips on how to create the perfect buttermilk substitute, you can read this helpful guide: How to Make Buttermilk.

Get Creative: Substitution and Add-in Ideas

This Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread recipe is wonderfully versatile, offering plenty of opportunities for customization to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

• Creamed Corn or Whole Kernel Corn: For added moisture, a hint of sweetness, and bursts of corn flavor, stir in ½ cup of drained whole kernel corn or creamed corn into the batter. This can make the cornbread even more tender and juicy.
• Sugar or Sweetener for Sweet Bread: While this recipe focuses on savory notes, if you crave a touch of sweetness, simply add ⅓ to ½ cup of granulated sugar or your preferred sweetener to the dry ingredients. This will transform it into a delicious sweet and spicy cornbread.
• Other Flavors of Cheese: As discussed earlier, feel free to swap out or combine the sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack (for extra spice!), Colby Jack, or even a smoked variety like Gouda for different flavor dimensions.
• Bacon Bits: For an irresistible smoky, salty crunch, fold in ½ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon bits into the batter. Bacon and cheddar are a match made in heaven!
• Fresh Herbs: Elevate the savory profile with fresh herbs. Finely chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro can add a burst of freshness.
• Garlic Powder/Onion Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder can deepen the savory base flavor.
• Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder can add subtle warmth and complexity.
• Roasted Peppers: Instead of or in addition to fresh jalapenos, try roasted red peppers or poblano peppers (diced) for a sweeter, smoky, and milder pepper flavor.

Reheating for Freshness: How to Enjoy Leftover Cornbread

While this Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, its deliciousness doesn’t fade with time. Leftovers can be just as satisfying, especially when reheated properly. The goal is to bring back that delightful warmth and tender texture, and ideally, some of that crispy edge. Here are the best methods for warming up your cornbread:

The absolute best way to make your cornbread taste as if it just came out of the oven is to reheat it using dry heat. This helps to re-crisp the exterior without drying out the interior.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place slices of cornbread directly on a baking sheet or wrap them loosely in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. The foil method will keep it softer, while direct heat will encourage crispiness.
• Air Fryer Method: If you have an air fryer, this is a fantastic option for small batches! Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place individual slices of cornbread in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently, until warm and the edges are crispy again. This method is particularly effective at restoring crispiness.
• Microwave (for softness, not crispness): While not ideal for restoring crisp edges, the microwave is the quickest way to warm cornbread if you prefer a soft texture. Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cornbread dry and rubbery.

Regardless of the method, avoid reheating for too long, as this can dry out the cornbread. Enjoy your warmed-up cornbread with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite meal!

What to Serve with Your Savory Cornbread

This versatile Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread is an outstanding companion to a wide range of dishes, especially those with Southern comfort food flair. Its spicy, cheesy notes cut through richness and complement hearty flavors beautifully. Here are some perfect pairings from our collection:

• Classic Butter Beans Recipe
• Southern Collard Greens
• Southern Cabbage
• Southern Green Beans
• Oven Baked Roasted Corn
• Sweet Potato Beef Chili
• Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili
• It’s also phenomenal alongside any hearty stew, pot roast, or a simple bowl of your favorite soup.

More Delicious Cornbread and Biscuit Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with homemade cornbread, we have even more delicious recipes to explore, from classic styles to unique twists and healthier options. Expand your baking repertoire with these fan favorites:

• Homemade Southern Style Cornbread
• Air Fryer Cornbread
• Keto Low Carb Cornbread
• Southern Cornbread Dressing
• Sweet Potato Biscuits
• Honey Cornbread
• Homemade Maple Butter
• Homemade Blueberry Cornbread
• Cornbread Muffins
• Pumpkin Cornbread
• Sweet Potato Cornbread
• Cornbread Casserole

Explore More Southern Soul Food Recipes

Our Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread is just a taste of the rich and comforting world of Southern Soul Food. Dive deeper into the culinary traditions that celebrate flavor, family, and hearty meals. Here are more beloved recipes that pair perfectly with cornbread or stand proudly on their own:

• Southern Cornbread Dressing
• Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Southern Soul Food Baked Mac and Cheese
• Southern Mustard Greens
• Okra and Tomatoes
• Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

You can find a full listing of all our delicious Southern Soul Food Recipes here, perfect for planning your next comforting meal!

Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe Card

By Brandi Crawford

This Savory Cheddar Cheese Jalapeno Cornbread is homemade from scratch with a hint of spice. It’s baked with crispy edges with a soft center. This is the best cheesy cornbread with a twist!

Rating: 5 from 12 votes

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Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Cooling: 20 mins

Total Time: 1 hr

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Servings: 16

Calories: 198 kcal

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Equipment

• Cast Iron Cornbread Skillet
• Cast Iron Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

• 2 cups yellow cornmeal
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 fresh jalapenos (finely chopped, seeds removed)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk (See notes for substitution.)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick, melted, measured solid.)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Used to grease the skillet/pan.)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. I like to use my food processor to shred the cheese and jalapenos. It saves a lot of time.
3. Add the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, jalapenos, and shredded cheddar to a mixing bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Next add in the eggs, ¼ cup melted butter, and buttermilk. Stir to combine. Be sure not to over mix the batter. Over-mixing will lead to large cracks in the crust and a lot of crumble. Only mix well enough to combine the ingredients.
5. Place a 10 inch cast iron skillet on medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and then grease the entire skillet including the edges. You can skip this step if you aren’t using a cast iron skillet.
6. While the skillet is hot, pour the mixture into the cast iron skillet. Alternatively (if you aren’t using a cast iron), add the mixture to the buttered baking dish/pan you are using to prepare the dish. (See notes.)
7. Remove the pan from the stove and place it in the oven to bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick can be inserted and returns clean.
8. I like to cool the cornbread completely prior to slicing and let it cool for at least 20 minutes.

Video

Watch the full recipe video here!

Notes

• You can make your own buttermilk using 1 ½ cups of milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon. Read more about How to Make Buttermilk here.
• You can use fresh or jalapenos from a jar in this recipe.
• The size of the jalapenos does not matter for this recipe. If you grab 2 really large ones, the cornbread will be a little spicier. If you grab small ones, it will be less spicy, etc.
• You can also substitute a different pepper, such as a serrano if you’re looking for additional heat.
• I like to add jalapeno slices to the top of the cornbread prior to baking. This is optional.
• To get a really crispy crust, be sure to add your batter to a piping hot, buttered skillet.
• You can use vegetable oil instead of butter if you wish.
• If you are not using a cast iron skillet, simply grease an 8×8 pan using the melted butter and add the batter.
• If you’re looking for the sweet Jiffy Cornbread taste, add ⅓rd to ½ cup of sugar.
• If you wish to make this low carb, follow this Low Carb Cornbread recipe and add the cheese and jalapenos to the dry ingredients.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 slice | Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 13g

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Nutrition Data

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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