Spicy Jalapeño Honey Corn Bread is the perfect twist on a classic comfort food. It's got a delightful kick from the jalapeños and a touch of sweetness from the honey, making it ideal for those who like a bit of spice with their sweet.
Cornmeal gives the bread its classic texture and flavor, making it hearty and slightly crumbly. All-purpose flour balances out the cornmeal to create a lighter crumb. A touch of granulated sugar adds just enough sweetness to complement the honey. The baking powder ensures the bread rises beautifully, while a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
Whole milk brings moisture and richness, while unsalted butter adds a luscious texture. Honey not only sweetens but also enhances the cornmeal’s natural flavor. Eggs bind everything together, ensuring a perfect crumb.
Freshly diced jalapeños provide a lively kick, and corn kernels offer little bursts of sweetness. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the bread, adding a savory depth. Finally, an extra drizzle of honey on top makes for a tantalizing finish.
This cornbread is fantastic served alongside a hot bowl of chili, a hearty stew, or as a side at your next barbecue. It also makes a great snack on its own with a pat of butter or extra honey.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and make sure to grease a 9-inch round cake pan. This will prevent the cornbread from sticking and make it easy to remove once baked.
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together until well mixed. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: milk, melted butter, honey, and eggs, until you have a smooth mixture.
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to stir everything together gently. Don’t overmix; you want everything just combined. Fold in the diced jalapeños, corn kernels, and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the magic happens—each ingredient adds its own character to the bread.
Transfer your batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cornbread cool slightly. Before serving, drizzle some extra honey on top for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy jalapeños.