Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Bread with Creamed Corn

Prep: 15 minCook: 52 min1 loaf (12 slices)mediumSouthern
Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Bread with Creamed Corn

A moist, savory cornbread combining sweet creamed corn with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeño heat. The buttermilk creates a tender crumb while the cast iron skillet gives a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for barbecues, chili dinners, or Southern-style meals. The jalapeño juice adds tangy heat throughout while sliced jalapeños on top provide extra kick and visual appeal.

Ingredients

Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices)
  • 1 ½ cup buttermilk
    regular milk + 1 Tbsp lemon juice1:1dairy-free

    adds tanginess

    Full guide →
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 ½ cup flour
  • 1 ½ cup cornmeal
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 ½ Tbsp baking powder
  • 1 can creamed corn
  • ½ can sweet corn, drained
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
    pepper jack cheese1:1spicy

    more heat and flavor

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup jalapeño juice, from jar
  • jalapeños, sliced, for topping
    poblano peppers1:1mild

    milder heat level

Instructions

  1. 1

    Whisk together buttermilk, eggs and vegetable oil in a large bowl

  2. 2

    Add flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt and baking powder and stir until incorporated

  3. 3

    Stir in both cans of corn, cheddar cheese and jalapeño juice

  4. 4

    Pour batter into generously-greased cast iron skillet

  5. 5

    Top with sliced jalapeños

  6. 6

    Bake for 45-60 minutes

Tips

Tip 1

Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for the best crust and even baking.

Tip 2

Don't overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the cornbread tender.

Tip 3

Test doneness with a toothpick inserted in center - it should come out clean.

Good to Know

Storage

Cover and store at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made 1 day ahead - wrap tightly and reheat before serving

Serve With

Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside chili and soups

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Grease the skillet well to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal

Watch

Don't open oven door during first 35 minutes to prevent collapse

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

buttermilk
regular milk + 1 Tbsp lemon juice1:1dairy-free

adds tanginess

Full guide →

General Alternatives

jalapeños
poblano peppers1:1mild

milder heat level

cheddar
pepper jack cheese1:1spicy

more heat and flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, use a 9x13 inch baking dish or round cake pan, but you won't get the same crispy crust that cast iron provides.

How long does this cornbread keep?

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Reheat before serving for best texture.

Can I freeze leftover cornbread?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.