Description

Looking for the perfect savory side with a spicy surprise? These Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are fluffy, cheesy, and have a creamy center that melts in your mouth. With just the right amount of jalapeño heat and a hidden dollop of seasoned cream cheese inside, they’re ideal for pairing with chili, BBQ, or simply serving as a snack or brunch treat.

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Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter:
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:
Extra shredded cheese
Thin jalapeño slices for garnish
Honey butter or maple butter for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Stir until smooth and set aside in the fridge while you mix the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add buttermilk and melted butter.
Stir into the dry ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños.

Step 5: Assemble the Muffins

Fill each muffin cup with about 1 tablespoon of batter.
Place a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each.
Top with another tablespoon of batter to cover the filling.
Sprinkle with extra cheese or top with a jalapeño slice if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden on top and a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm with honey butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-spicy combo.
Great alongside chili, barbecue, or fried chicken.

Notes

Use Room Temp Ingredients – Helps everything mix smoothly and bake evenly.
Don’t Overfill – This prevents overflow and helps keep the filling in place.
Customize It – Add corn kernels, chopped scallions, or cooked crumbled chicken.
Let Cool Slightly – So the cream cheese center sets up just right before serving.
Reheat Gently – Warm in the oven to restore crisp tops and soft centers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American Southwestern