If you're a fan of cornbread with a twist, these Cornhole-Style Cornbread Muffins are calling your name! They've got a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and cheesy that makes them perfect for any occasion, from a casual backyard barbecue to a cozy dinner at home.
The base of these muffins is a combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal, providing structure and that classic cornbread texture. A touch of granulated sugar adds sweetness, balancing the heat from the jalapeños. Baking powder and baking soda work together to give these muffins a nice rise and fluffy texture. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
Buttermilk adds moisture and a tangy flavor that complements the corn. Eggs help bind everything together, while unsalted butter adds richness. Fresh or frozen corn kernels contribute a juicy, sweet bite. Jalapeños bring a gentle heat, and shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey pockets of deliciousness.
Pair these muffins with a hearty chili or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal. They're also fantastic alongside grilled meats at a summer barbecue. For a breakfast treat, serve them with scrambled eggs and avocado slices.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your muffins have a nice shape.
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there's no clumping; a smooth blend is key.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. The buttermilk and eggs should be at room temperature to prevent the butter from solidifying.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the muffins tough, so aim for a slightly lumpy batter.
Fold in the corn kernels, jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. You want these ingredients evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full. This allows room for them to rise without overflowing.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. You'll know they're ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.