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Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Crumble Bake

Discover the delicious Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Crumble Bake, a modern twist on a classic comfort food. This savory dish combines the bold flavor of cheddar cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños, all nestled in a warm cornbread base. Perfect for barbecues, cozy dinners, or potlucks, its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture will please any crowd. Learn how to create this mouthwatering dish that elevates the beloved Southern staple of cornbread.

Ingredients
  

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1-2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for a milder flavor)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup honey

1/2 cup whole corn kernels (can be fresh, canned, or frozen)

1/2 cup crumbled cornbread (store-bought or homemade) for topping

Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or one of a similar size to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until evenly blended.

      Incorporate cheese and jalapeños: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely diced jalapeños to the dry mixture. Stir gently to ensure they are dispersed evenly throughout the mixture.

        Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and honey until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

          Combine wet and dry: Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Gently fold in the whole corn kernels at this stage for added texture.

            Transfer to baking dish: Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly to the edges.

              Add cornbread crumble topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumbled cornbread over the top of the mixture, creating a delightful layer of texture and flavor.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The dish is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                  Serve: Allow the Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Crumble Bake to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if desired for added color and flavor.

                    Enjoy!: This dish pairs beautifully as a side for barbecues or can stand alone as a hearty main course filled with delicious flavors!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 8 servings