Jalapeño Cornbread with Lime Honey Glaze

by

Looking to add a zesty kick to your next gathering or simply craving a delightful treat? Look no further than this tantalizing recipe for Jalapeño Cornbread with Lime Honey Glaze! Bursting with flavor and warmth, each slice of this cornbread is a symphony of spicy jalapeños, savory cheese, and tangy lime honey glaze. Whether it’s a fiesta with friends or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to elevate any occasion!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Lime Honey Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Pinch of salt

Additional Toppings:

  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Freshly chopped cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or cast iron skillet.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
  3. Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Add Flavor: Fold in the chopped jalapeños and grated cheddar cheese (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Prepare Glaze: While the cornbread is baking, prepare the lime honey glaze by whisking together the honey, lime zest, lime juice, melted butter, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
  8. Finish: Once the cornbread is done baking, remove it from the oven and while still warm, poke holes throughout the top with a toothpick. Drizzle the lime honey glaze over the cornbread, allowing it to seep into the crevices and infuse every bite with citrusy sweetness.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced jalapeños and freshly chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Allow the cornbread to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy!

 

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve Warm: Jalapeño Cornbread with Lime Honey Glaze is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The heat enhances the flavors and textures, making each bite even more delicious. Serve it as a delightful appetizer, side dish, or even as a standalone snack.
  2. Pairing Suggestions: This cornbread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside chili, soups, stews, or grilled meats for a hearty and satisfying meal. It also makes a tasty accompaniment to barbecue dishes, salads, or as part of a brunch spread.
  3. Customize Toppings: Get creative with your toppings to add even more flavor and visual appeal. In addition to sliced jalapeños and chopped cilantro, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  4. Storage: If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To prolong freshness, you can refrigerate the cornbread for up to 5 days. Simply reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving to restore their warmth and freshness.
  5. Freeze for Later: Jalapeño Cornbread can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cornbread can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

 

 

Variations:

  1. Cheese Lover’s Delight: For an extra cheesy twist, incorporate different types of cheese into the cornbread batter. Try adding shredded pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda for a rich and flavorful experience. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a golden and gooey crust.
  2. Vegan Friendly: To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use almond milk or soy milk in place of buttermilk, and vegan butter instead of regular butter. You can also replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) for binding.
  3. Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy this delicious cornbread by using gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensuring that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will remain just as delightful.
  4. Spicy Spin: Adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or fewer jalapeños. For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also experiment with other spicy ingredients like diced poblano peppers or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor.
  5. Sweet and Savory Combo: Enhance the sweetness of the cornbread by incorporating additional ingredients like corn kernels or diced bell peppers into the batter. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will add depth to each bite and make it even more irresistible.
  6. Herb Infusion: Infuse your cornbread with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Add finely chopped herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the batter along with the jalapeños for a fragrant and aromatic twist. You can also sprinkle chopped herbs on top before baking for an extra pop of color and flavor.
  7. Citrus Burst: Experiment with different citrus flavors in the glaze for a refreshing twist. Instead of lime, try using lemon or orange zest and juice to create a tangy and aromatic glaze that complements the spicy jalapeños perfectly.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

  1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the cornbread? Yes, absolutely! You can control the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of jalapeños you add to the batter. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping them. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier kick, leave the seeds in or add extra jalapeños.
  2. Can I make this cornbread ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cornbread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the cornbread for longer-term storage. Just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating and serving.
  3. Can I omit the cheese from the recipe? Absolutely! The cheese adds a nice savory element to the cornbread, but if you prefer to omit it, you can still enjoy delicious results. The cornbread will still be flavorful and moist thanks to the combination of buttermilk, butter, and jalapeños.
  4. How do I know when the cornbread is done baking? The cornbread is done baking when it turns golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should take approximately 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C), but baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of pan you’re using.
  5. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions. While all-purpose flour works well in this recipe, you can also use whole wheat flour, gluten-free flour, or corn flour for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

With its perfect balance of spicy jalapeños, gooey cheese, and tangy lime honey glaze, this Jalapeño Cornbread is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Mexican fiesta or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe will transport your taste buds to a flavor-packed fiesta! So why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the irresistible flavors of this jalapeño-infused delight! 🌶️🌽🌶️