Dinner

Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

Name: Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped; 1/4 cup hot honey (or to taste); 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, like cheddar or pepper jack)

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Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread is a delightful twist on a classic southern favorite. The sweet and spicy combination of hot honey and jalapeños adds a unique flavor that will keep your taste buds dancing. This cornbread is perfect for serving alongside barbecued meals, soups, or as a stand-alone snack. With its fluffy texture and a hint of heat, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 220
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 300mg

Why Make This Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

This Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread stands out because of its balanced flavor profile. The sweetness of hot honey complements the mild heat of the jalapeños, making it an exciting side dish or snack. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or cozying up with a bowl of chili, this cornbread elevates the meal. Plus, it’s quick to make and requires everyday ingredients, making it accessible for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

How to Make Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

Making this cornbread is straightforward and fun. You’ll appreciate how the ingredients come together effortlessly to create a warm, aromatic dish that fills your home with delightful scents.

Ingredients:

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped
1/4 cup hot honey (or to taste)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, like cheddar or pepper jack)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish. Preparing your baking dish ahead of time ensures that the cornbread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients creates the perfect foundation for your cornbread.

Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mixing these wet ingredients separately helps to combine them evenly before adding them to the dry mixture.

Step 4: Combining and Adding Flavors

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay! Next, fold in the chopped jalapeños and shredded cheese, if you’re using any.

Step 5: Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and swirl in the hot honey, creating beautiful patterns in the batter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Finishing

Drizzle additional hot honey on top before serving. This extra touch of sweetness will impress your guests!

How to Serve Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

Serve this cornbread warm from the oven, perhaps with a pat of butter melting on top. It pairs beautifully with chili, barbecue ribs, or even grilled meats. For a brunch option, serve it alongside eggs for a tasty twist.

How to Store Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

To store leftover cornbread, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread

If you like it spicier, include more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers.
For a sweeter cornbread, increase the hot honey you swirl in.
Using buttermilk instead of regular milk adds a lovely tang that complements the sweetness.
Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise in your cornbread.
Serve with a side of more hot honey for dipping or drizzling!

Delicious Variations

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Add a generous cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for an extra cheesy experience.
Sweet Corn and Jalapeño: Stir in a cup of canned or frozen sweet corn for added texture and sweetness.
Herbed Cornbread: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or chives to enhance the flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend suitable for baking and includes a binding agent.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dry ingredients, or adjust the amount of hot honey to your taste.
What can I use instead of hot honey?
If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a little bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to achieve a similar sweetness with heat.
Can I make cornbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and bake it the next day. Just store the batter in the fridge overnight and stir lightly before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat cornbread?
The oven works best! Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cornbread for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Jalapeño Cornbread is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that’s sure to brighten any meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing on your dinner table. The combination of honey and jalapeños creates a unique taste that your friends and family will love. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this delicious recipe today!