When the weather starts to cool down, it’s the perfect time to bake up something warm and comforting. Enter the Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread, a delicious twist on the classic Southern dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side to a hearty chili, grilled meats, or simply enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe
Ingredients for the Perfect Cornbread
Creating this flavorful Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread starts with the right balance of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 heaping cup of cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of whole milk
- A dash of heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon of honey (or more to taste)
- 3 jalapenos, diced
- Butter (for greasing the pan)
- Sliced jalapenos for garnish
- Hot honey for drizzling
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of bringing this Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread to life.
Step 1: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. The key to perfect cornbread is finding the right ratio between flour and cornmeal. In this case, we’re using 1 cup of flour and 1 heaping cup of cornmeal. This combination provides a slightly lighter texture than using cornmeal alone, but still keeps that signature cornbread crumb.
To this, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder to give the cornbread a light and fluffy rise. Don’t forget a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Mix these dry ingredients together and set the bowl aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, pour in 1 cup of whole milk and add a dash of heavy cream. The heavy cream not only adds richness but helps keep the cornbread moist during baking.
Next, crack in a large egg. You might notice some unique eggs at your local grocery store with blue shells—these often come from special breeds of hens, but any large egg will work just fine.
Now, it’s time to add the sweetness that balances the heat. Measure out about 1 tablespoon of honey. This can be adjusted based on your preference—if you like things a little sweeter, don’t hesitate to add more. Whisk the milk, cream, egg, and honey together until smooth.
Step 3: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once your wet ingredients are well mixed, it’s time to bring everything together. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser, tougher cornbread. The consistency you’re looking for should be thick but pourable—not too runny, and not too stiff.
Step 4: Adding the Heat – Jalapenos
Now for the heat—dice up three jalapenos. If you prefer more spice, feel free to leave the seeds in. Otherwise, for a milder kick, you can remove the seeds before chopping. Add the diced jalapenos to your batter and give it one final stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Prepping the Baking Dish
Before you bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab your baking dish (an 8×8 inch or similar size works well) and place a generous amount of butter in the bottom. Let the butter melt as the oven preheats, which will not only prevent sticking but also give your cornbread a wonderfully crispy, buttery crust.
Once the butter has melted, pour the cornbread batter into the dish, making sure to spread it out evenly. For an extra kick and a beautiful presentation, top the batter with a few slices of fresh jalapenos.
Step 6: Baking the Cornbread
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Adding the Finishing Touches
When your cornbread is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to take it to the next level. Top it with a pad of butter, letting it melt over the warm bread. Then, drizzle hot honey generously across the top. The combination of sweet honey with the heat from the jalapenos creates a perfect flavor balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:
- With Chili: The sweetness and spice of the cornbread complement a hearty bowl of chili perfectly.
- Barbecue Sides: Serve alongside grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or brisket for a truly Southern meal.
- Breakfast Treat: Reheat leftovers and enjoy with scrambled eggs and bacon for a spicy, savory breakfast.
- As a Snack: Sometimes, you just need a slice of cornbread with a drizzle of honey for a quick snack. It’s delicious on its own, too!
Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread
- Customize the Heat: If you love spicy food, keep the jalapeno seeds in, or add a fourth jalapeno. For a milder version, remove the seeds and reduce the number of jalapenos to two.
- Experiment with Honey: Hot honey can be found at most grocery stores, but you can also make your own by mixing honey with a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cornmeal Variety: For a heartier, more rustic texture, try using stone-ground cornmeal in place of regular cornmeal. It adds a bit more texture and depth of flavor.
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
This Hot Honey Jalapeno Cornbread recipe is an irresistible combination of flavors—sweet, spicy, buttery, and moist. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just because it’s cornbread season, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With a perfect balance of texture and taste, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Give it a try, and don’t forget the final drizzle of hot honey—it’s the key to taking this cornbread from good to great!
