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Flavorful Honey Butter Cornbread Muffins with Jalapeño Cheddar

honey butter cornbread muffins - featured image

These muffins combine the sweetness of honey butter with a gentle kick from jalapeños and sharp cheddar for a perfect spicy snack. They are quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (can swap for almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • For the Honey Butter Glaze:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease well.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and smoked paprika if using.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with buttermilk and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined; some lumps are okay.
  5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños.
  6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
  8. While baking, melt butter and stir in honey to make glaze.
  9. Brush warm muffins generously with honey butter glaze immediately after baking.
  10. Allow muffins to cool 5 minutes in pan before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins. Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or using fewer peppers. Brush honey butter glaze immediately after baking for best moisture and shine. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour. For vegan, use flax eggs, plant-based milk, vegan butter, and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread muffins, honey butter, jalapeño cheddar, spicy snack, quick muffins, savory muffins, gluten-free option, vegan option