Cornbread is a classic comfort food, but adding a sweet and spicy twist takes it to the next level! This Sweet and Spicy Cornbread has the perfect balance of moist texture, rich flavor, and a slight kick from fresh jalapeños. The combination of honey and sugar creates a subtle sweetness that complements the heat, making it an ideal side dish for BBQ, chili, and Southern-style meals.
The best part? This recipe is easy to make and comes together in just 30 minutes! Whether you bake it in a traditional cast-iron skillet for crispy edges or a regular baking pan, this cornbread will be a hit at any meal.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk mixed with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup honey (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for milder heat)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a richer texture)
Tools:
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9-inch cast-iron skillet or baking pan
- Spatula
Pro Tips for the Best Cornbread
- For crispy edges, preheat the cast-iron skillet in the oven before adding the batter.
- Adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños. Remove the seeds for a milder taste.
- For a richer flavor, add an extra tablespoon of honey or sugar.
- Make it extra moist by stirring in ¼ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Want a cheesier version? Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese.
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and replace butter with melted coconut oil.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
- Maple Cornbread: Replace honey with maple syrup for an earthy sweetness.
- Savory Version: Reduce the sugar and add crumbled bacon or green onions.
How to Make It
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Skillet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven to heat while you prepare the batter. This helps create a golden, crispy crust on the cornbread.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and sugar. This ensures even distribution of the flavors and leavening agents.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before mixing to avoid scrambling the eggs.
4. Combine the Batter
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cornbread dense instead of light and fluffy.
5. Fold in Jalapeños and Cheese
Gently fold in the diced jalapeños and shredded cheese (if using). The cheese adds a creamy richness, while the jalapeños provide a bold, spicy kick.
6. Bake the Cornbread
- If using a cast-iron skillet, remove it from the oven and grease it with butter. Pour in the batter and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool & Serve
Remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with extra honey or butter for even more flavor before serving.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Cornbread
- With BBQ: Serve alongside smoked ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
- Chili Night: The perfect companion for a steaming bowl of chili.
- For Breakfast: Top with fried eggs and a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Cornbread Muffins: Bake in a muffin tin for easy individual servings.
Conclusion
This Sweet and Spicy Cornbread brings the perfect balance of moist texture, subtle sweetness, and just the right amount of heat. Whether served with BBQ, chili, or as a standalone snack, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
