Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling: Spicy and Delicious Treat

Looking for a unique twist on a classic dish? Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling offer the perfect combination of spicy and creamy, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Category: Snack/Bread
• Cuisine: American
• Cost: $

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These spice-laden muffins provide an exciting kick with each bite, thanks to fresh jalapeños nestled in a buttery, sweet cornbread batter. The surprise of melty cream cheese at the center adds a smooth contrast to the heat. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weekend treat, their versatility ensures they will be a hit every time.

Context/Background

Cornbread has long been a staple in Southern cuisine, cherished for its simplicity and adaptability. By incorporating jalapeños and a cream cheese filling, this recipe takes classic cornbread to the next level, marrying traditional flavors with new, bold tastes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter can result in tough muffins; mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Ensure the cream cheese is well softened to prevent uneven filling distribution.
• Do not overfill muffin cups as the batter may expand excessively.

Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

• Thoroughly dry jalapeños after washing to avoid excess moisture in muffins.
• For extra heat, include seeds from the jalapeños.
• Experiment with cheese varieties in the filling for different flavor profiles.
• Keep an eye on baking time; muffins should be golden and springy to the touch.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute pepper jack cheese for cream cheese for a different flavor.
• Use gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Add corn kernels for texture variation.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins pair beautifully with chili, soup, or as a standalone snack complemented by honey butter.

Storage and Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in a microwave or oven for best results.

Make Ahead Instructions

Prepare the batter 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh muffins.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Dietary Notes

• This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.

The Recipe

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup finely chopped jalapeños
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Gently mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold the chopped jalapeños into the batter.
6. Fill each muffin cup halfway, then add a dollop of cream cheese, and top with more batter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until muffins are golden and set.
8. Cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Recipe Notes

• Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your spice preference.
• Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth filling application.

Community Tips and Photos

Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #JalapeñoCornbreadMuffins on social media.

Questions and Answers

• Can I use pickled jalapeños? Yes, but they will alter the flavor slightly.
• What can I use instead of buttermilk? Use a buttermilk substitute, like milk with lemon juice.