Mexican cornbread is a delightful twist on the classic cornbread, incorporating the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This moist and fluffy cornbread is packed with savory ingredients such as jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and a hint of cumin, making it the perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it with chili, tacos, or a hearty soup, this cornbread brings a touch of warmth and spice to your table. The combination of sweet cornmeal and the spicy kick of jalapeños creates a delicious balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for more.

What makes Mexican cornbread stand out is its texture and flavor profile. The cornbread is soft, yet slightly crumbly, with pockets of cheese and bits of jalapeño that melt into the bread as it bakes. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of spicy. Perfect for any meal, this cornbread works as a snack on its own or as a complement to your favorite Mexican or Southern dishes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any special skills, making it a great recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold, Savory Flavor

The combination of jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and spices gives this cornbread a unique flavor that’s a step above the traditional version.

2. Easy to Make

With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this cornbread comes together quickly and requires little hands-on time.

3. Perfectly Moist

Unlike some cornbread recipes that can be dry, this one is wonderfully moist and tender thanks to the added sour cream and melted butter.

4. Versatile Side Dish

It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes such as chili, soups, barbecues, or even tacos, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

5. Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Mexican cornbread is sure to impress guests and family members alike.

Ingredients

Cornmeal
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Sugar
Salt
Eggs
Buttermilk
Sour cream
Butter
Shredded cheddar cheese
Jalapeños
Ground cumin
Green onions (optional)

Variations

1. Spicy Cornbread

Increase the number of jalapeños or add diced green chilies for extra heat.

2. Sweet and Savory

If you like a sweeter cornbread, add a bit more sugar or drizzle with honey after baking.

3. Cheese Lover’s Cornbread

Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Cotija for a richer, more complex flavor.

4. Vegetarian Version

Omit any meats or use plant-based cheese and sour cream for a vegetarian-friendly version.

5. Bacon Cornbread

For a smoky, savory twist, add crumbled cooked bacon to the batter before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8-inch round cake pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, sour cream, and melted butter until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.

Step 5: Fold in Cheese and Jalapeños

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and cumin until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cornbread

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. For extra flavor, drizzle with honey or top with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter

To ensure your cornbread stays light and fluffy, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before adding them to the batter, or reduce the number of jalapeños.

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream helps the batter come together more easily and ensures a smooth consistency.

4. Bake on the Middle Rack

For even baking, place your baking dish on the middle rack of the oven.

5. Add Extra Toppings

Top the cornbread with melted butter, cheese, or fresh cilantro after baking for added flavor and presentation.

How to Serve

Mexican cornbread is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals:

With Chili: Serve alongside a hearty bowl of chili for the perfect comfort food combination.
As a Side: Complement grilled meats, BBQ, or roasted vegetables with a slice of cornbread.
For Breakfast: Enjoy a slice of cornbread with scrambled eggs and avocado for a delicious start to your day.
As a Snack: Serve slices with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of sour cream for a tasty snack on its own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze leftover cornbread in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat cornbread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cornbread without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk, or use a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess.

2. Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cornbread a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it at room temperature until ready to serve.

3. How can I make this cornbread spicier?

Increase the number of jalapeños or add extra spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to give it more heat.

4. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Cotija cheese.

5. Can I make this recipe without jalapeños?

If you don’t like spice, simply leave out the jalapeños or substitute them with mild green chilies for a less intense flavor.

6. Why is my cornbread dry?

If your cornbread is dry, it may have been overbaked or overmixed. Make sure to bake it until just golden and check for doneness with a toothpick.

7. Can I add other ingredients to the cornbread?

Feel free to add ingredients like corn kernels, diced bell peppers, or crumbled bacon for a more customized flavor.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.

9. How do I know when the cornbread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the cornbread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.

10. Can I make this cornbread in muffin form?

Yes, you can bake this cornbread in muffin tins. Reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Conclusion

Mexican cornbread is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that elevates any meal. With its combination of cornmeal, spices, jalapeños, and cheese, it brings a savory, slightly spicy twist to traditional cornbread. Whether you’re serving it alongside chili or enjoying it on its own, this cornbread is sure to be a hit at your next meal. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Try making it today and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of homemade Mexican cornbread!