Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins: A Spicy & Savory Delight!
Cornbread muffins are a classic comfort food, perfect as a side dish for chili, soups, or even just enjoyed on their own. But sometimes, you want to kick things up a notch. That’s where this Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins recipe comes in! It’s quick, easy, and adds a delicious spicy and cheesy twist to the traditional cornbread. Using Jiffy cornbread mix makes it incredibly convenient, while the jalapenos and cheese bring a delightful warmth and savory flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing side dish. The combination of sweet cornbread, spicy jalapenos, and melty cheese is simply irresistible. Let’s dive in and see how to make these amazing muffins!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe utilizes Jiffy cornbread mix, which significantly cuts down on prep time. You can have these muffins in the oven in just minutes!
* **Flavorful:** The addition of jalapenos and cheese elevates the humble cornbread to a whole new level. The spicy kick and cheesy goodness are a perfect complement to the sweetness of the cornbread.
* **Versatile:** These muffins are a great accompaniment to so many meals. They pair well with chili, soups, BBQ, or even as a side for breakfast.
* **Customizable:** Easily adjust the level of spice by using more or fewer jalapenos, or by opting for milder or hotter varieties. You can also experiment with different types of cheese.
* **Kid-Friendly (with adjustments):** If you’re making these for kids, you can easily reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove them altogether. The cheesy cornbread base is still delicious on its own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix:** This is the base of our recipe and makes it incredibly easy to prepare.
* **1 large egg:** Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
* **1/3 cup milk:** Adds moisture to the batter.
* **1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter):** Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
* **1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese:** Adds cheesy flavor and melty goodness. Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
* **2-3 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced:** This is where the spice comes from! Adjust the amount to your preference. Remember to wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.
* **Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar:** If you prefer a slightly sweeter cornbread, add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter.
* **Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder:** Adds a savory depth of flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Muffin tin:** A standard 12-cup muffin tin is ideal.
* **Muffin liners (optional):** Liners make cleanup easier, but you can also grease the muffin tin directly.
* **Mixing bowl:** For combining the ingredients.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Knife and cutting board:** For dicing the jalapenos.
* **Gloves (optional but recommended):** For handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create perfect Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins every time:
**1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the center position for even baking.
* Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. This prevents the muffins from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
**2. Combine Wet Ingredients:**
* In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vegetable oil (or melted butter) until well combined. Ensure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining.
**3. Add Dry Ingredients:**
* Add the Jiffy cornbread mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough muffins. A few lumps are okay.
* If using, add the optional sugar and garlic powder to the batter and gently stir to incorporate.
**4. Incorporate Cheese and Jalapenos:**
* Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapenos into the batter. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture. Make sure the jalapenos are well dispersed to ensure each muffin has a consistent level of spice.
**5. Fill the Muffin Cups:**
* Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. This allows the muffins to rise without overflowing.
**6. Bake the Muffins:**
* Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
**7. Cool and Serve:**
* Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
* Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite chili, soup, or BBQ.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Muffins
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature eggs and milk can help the batter come together more smoothly and evenly.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** The amount of jalapenos can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds and membranes. For a spicier kick, use more jalapenos or opt for a hotter variety like serrano peppers.
* **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheddar and Colby are all great options.
* **Add-Ins:** Get creative with your add-ins! Consider adding corn kernels, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before spooning it into the muffin tin.
* **Storage:** Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
* **Prevent sticking:** Even with muffin liners or greasing the pan, sometimes muffins still stick. Letting them cool slightly in the pan before removing them helps, as the cooling process firms them up a bit. A thin spatula run along the edges can also help loosen them.
* **For extra golden tops:** Brush the tops of the muffins with melted butter before baking for a richer color and flavor.
* **High Altitude Baking:** If you’re baking at a high altitude, you may need to adjust the recipe slightly. Try reducing the amount of liquid by a tablespoon or two, and increase the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C). This helps prevent the muffins from rising too quickly and then collapsing.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
* **Spicy Cornbread Muffins:** For even more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the batter.
* **Cheesy Garlic Cornbread Muffins:** Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic to the batter for a savory twist.
* **Bacon Cheddar Cornbread Muffins:** Cook and crumble a few slices of bacon and add them to the batter along with the cheddar cheese.
* **Corn and Green Onion Cornbread Muffins:** Add 1/2 cup of corn kernels and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions to the batter.
* **Honey Cornbread Muffins:** Drizzle a teaspoon of honey over each muffin before baking for a touch of sweetness.
* **Vegan Cornbread Muffins:** Use a vegan cornbread mix and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use plant-based milk and oil.
* **Gluten-Free Cornbread Muffins:** Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and follow the package instructions.
* **Dairy-Free Cornbread Muffins:** Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
These Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Chili:** Cornbread and chili are a classic pairing. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the spicy, savory flavors of the chili.
* **Soups:** Serve these muffins alongside your favorite soup, such as tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or black bean soup.
* **BBQ:** Cornbread is a must-have side dish for any BBQ. Serve these muffins with pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken.
* **Breakfast:** Enjoy these muffins as part of a hearty breakfast. They pair well with eggs, bacon, and sausage.
* **Salads:** Crumble these muffins over a salad for added flavor and texture.
* **Snack:** These muffins make a delicious and satisfying snack on their own.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 150-200 per muffin (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Fat: 8-12 grams
* Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
* Protein: 3-5 grams
*Note: This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.*
Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins Recipe Card
**Yields:** 12 muffins
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 15-20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
* 1 large egg
* 1/3 cup milk
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
* Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar
* Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and oil (or butter).
3. Add Jiffy mix, sugar (optional), and garlic powder (optional). Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cheese and jalapenos.
5. Spoon batter into muffin tin, filling each cup 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool in tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffins! They are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Final Thoughts
This Jiffy Jalapeno Cheese Cornbread Muffin recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and a little creativity can transform a classic dish into something truly special. The ease of using Jiffy mix combined with the bold flavors of jalapenos and cheese makes these muffins a winner every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a flavorful snack, or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next gathering, these muffins are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of warm, spicy, and cheesy goodness!
Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create your own signature cornbread muffin recipe. The possibilities are endless!
Happy baking!