Traditional Mexican Cornbread

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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This Traditional Mexican Cornbread is a delightful twist on the classic side dish, featuring spicy jalapeños and savory cheddar cheese. It's perfect for adding a flavorful kick to any meal.

Ingredients for Traditional Mexican Cornbread

Cornmeal gives the cornbread its characteristic texture and flavor. We use yellow for its sweet, earthy notes. All-purpose flour helps provide structure, while granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat. Baking powder is our leavening agent, ensuring the cornbread rises nicely. A bit of salt enhances all the flavors.

Butter adds richness and moisture, while buttermilk contributes tanginess and tenderness. Eggs bind everything together. Corn kernels add bursts of natural sweetness, and shredded cheddar cheese offers a savory depth. Jalapeños bring the heat, and green onions add a fresh, mild bite.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh corn if it's in season for the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well.
  • Adjust the jalapeños to your heat preference—remove seeds for less spice.
  • For a crispier edge, preheat the baking dish in the oven before pouring in the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This cornbread pairs wonderfully with a hearty chili or a tangy pulled pork. It's also great alongside a bowl of soup or as part of a Southwestern-style brunch with eggs and avocado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
How do I store leftover cornbread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze cornbread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Traditional Mexican Cornbread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick stir to mix everything evenly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs until smooth. Make sure the butter isn't hot, or it might cook the eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently, just until everything is combined—you don't want to overmix.

Add in the corn kernels, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and green onions. Fold these into the batter, ensuring they're distributed evenly. Pour the batter into your prepared dish and spread it out with a spatula so it bakes evenly.

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing, which makes it easier to cut and serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
  • Moist and tender with a golden crust.
  • Versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients

1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
5. Fold in corn kernels, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and green onions.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

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