Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins are the ultimate savory snack or meal companion that brings a delightful blend of cheesy richness and a spicy kick. Whether you’re looking for a perfect breakfast, a side to your favorite soup, or just a tasty snack to nibble on during the day, these muffins deliver a mouthwatering experience. The sharpness of cheddar cheese, combined with the heat of jalapeños, creates a delicious contrast, making these muffins an absolute hit at any table.
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Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins Recipe: A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Spice
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins Recipe
A cheddar jalapeño muffin is a savory muffin featuring two key ingredients—sharp cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeños. These muffins are perfect for those who enjoy a little heat paired with their cheesy goodness. The muffins have a golden, slightly crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that is rich in flavor, with just the right amount of spice.
The texture is light, thanks to the combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the moisture provided by milk and melted butter. The jalapeños, finely chopped and mixed into the batter, infuse the muffins with just enough heat, while the cheddar adds a deep, savory richness
Ingredients
Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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2 medium jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
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1 large egg
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¾ cup milk (whole or buttermilk)
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients work together to create the perfect muffin with a golden crust, soft texture, and just the right balance of savory and spicy flavor.
Instructions
Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins – Step-by-Step Instructions
Enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and spicy kick with these easy-to-make cheddar jalapeño muffins. Follow the steps below for a warm, savory treat that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients Needed
(Ensure you’ve gathered all your ingredients before starting)
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
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All-purpose flour
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Baking powder
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Salt
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Black pepper
This ensures even distribution and proper rising during baking.
Step 3: Add Cheese & Jalapeños
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños to the dry mixture. Gently toss to coat them with the flour—this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
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Egg
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Milk
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Melted butter
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Honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness to balance the heat)
Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as oven times may vary.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For extra flavor and a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Enjoy your freshly baked Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins—perfect as a snack, side, or party treat!
Notes
These Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins are the perfect blend of savory cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños, making them a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a grab-and-go breakfast, or want a flavorful companion to your favorite soup or chili, these muffins deliver both taste and texture. Quick to prepare and full of bold flavors, they’re a must-try for cheese and spice lovers!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about cheddar jalapeño muffins—from their origins to the recipe, preparation method, and various ways to tweak them for your taste. Plus, you’ll find answers to some frequently asked questions to make sure your muffins turn out perfect every time. Ready to spice up your baking routine? Let’s dive in!
What is the Cheddar Jalapeño Muffin Recipe?
A cheddar jalapeño muffin is a savory muffin featuring two key ingredients—sharp cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeños. These muffins are perfect for those who enjoy a little heat paired with their cheesy goodness. The muffins have a golden, slightly crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that is rich in flavor, with just the right amount of spice.
The texture is light, thanks to the combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the moisture provided by milk and melted butter. The jalapeños, finely chopped and mixed into the batter, infuse the muffins with just enough heat, while the cheddar adds a deep, savory richness.
These muffins can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or paired with other dishes like soups, salads, or even as a breakfast treat. The best part is that the recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it a favorite for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
Origin of the Cheddar Jalapeño Muffin
While the origins of cheddar jalapeño muffins are not entirely clear, it’s easy to see how they could emerge from the trend of combining cheese and spicy peppers into various baked goods. The fusion of cheese and chili peppers in baking is a popular concept, especially in regions with strong culinary traditions involving spicy ingredients, like Texas, California, and Mexico.
Muffins, which originated in the UK in the 18th century, have evolved significantly over time. The American version of the muffin, which is what we typically enjoy today, has morphed into both sweet and savory varieties. Over time, the incorporation of ingredients like jalapeños and cheddar cheese became popular, combining savory flavors with the soft, pillowy texture of traditional muffins.
The combination of cheddar and jalapeño is frequently seen in many dishes, from savory bread to stuffed peppers, and it’s no surprise that it has made its way into the muffin world. These muffins have become a favorite in many households, especially those looking for a savory breakfast or a side dish with some zest.
Cheddar Jalapeño Muffin Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering cheddar jalapeño muffins. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just some basic pantry staples with a couple of fresh additions. Here’s what you need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 medium jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup milk (whole or buttermilk)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients work together to create the perfect muffin with a golden crust, soft texture, and just the right balance of savory and spicy flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method of cheddar jalapeño muffins
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s go over the preparation steps. This recipe is simple, and the muffins will come together quickly, allowing you to enjoy the warm, cheesy, and spicy goodness in no time. Follow these steps to make your cheddar jalapeño muffins:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the muffins bake evenly and achieve a perfectly golden color. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin, or you can line it with paper liners for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure they are well-mixed. This will ensure the muffins rise evenly during baking.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Jalapeños
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños into the dry mixture. Gently toss them together so that the cheese and jalapeños are coated with the flour. This step helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins while baking.
Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and honey (if you choose to use it). Mix until everything is smooth and fully combined. The honey adds a hint of sweetness to balance the heat of the jalapeños.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy. Overmixing could lead to dense muffins, and we want them to be light and fluffy.
Step 6: Spoon the Batter into Muffin Tin
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ of the way full. This gives the muffins enough space to rise and expand without overflowing.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the muffins for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so be sure to keep an eye on them.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
Variations of Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins
While the classic cheddar jalapeño muffin recipe is delicious as is, you can experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own unique twist on this savory treat. Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Cheddar Bacon Muffins: Add crispy bacon bits to the batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Vegan Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins: Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese, almond milk, and vegan butter to create a dairy-free version of this recipe.
- Herb-Infused Muffins: Add fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the batter for an aromatic twist that complements the cheese and jalapeños.
- Cheddar Jalapeño Corn Muffins: For a more hearty muffin, mix in corn kernels for a sweet contrast to the heat of the jalapeños.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About Cheddar Jalapeño Muffins
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for these muffins?
Yes! While sharp cheddar cheese is the most common choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Colby cheese. Each type will bring its own flavor and meltability to the muffins.
2. How can I make the muffins spicier?
To increase the spice level, you can add extra jalapeños or leave some seeds in the peppers. Additionally, you could sprinkle chili flakes or even add a small amount of cayenne pepper to the batter.
3. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins keep well for a couple of days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Can I make these muffins without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or another egg replacer if you’re following a vegan or egg-free diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these cheddar jalapeño muffins are a must-try for anyone looking to add a bit of spice to their baking repertoire. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeños creates a flavorful treat that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, alongside soup, or as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of delicious muffins that pack a punch. And with the added option to customize them to your taste, you’ll have a versatile recipe that you can enjoy again and again. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and start baking these mouthwatering cheddar jalapeño muffins today!