Spicy Corn Muffins 🌽🔥

These Spicy Corn Muffins bring a delightful kick to your traditional corn muffin mix! Perfect as a side for your favorite chili or served as a tasty snack, these muffins are fluffy and packed with flavor. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet corn and spicy jalapeños, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Pair them with a dab of butter or your favorite hot sauce for an extra zing! 🧈🌶️

Ingredients

For the batter

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
• 1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

For the topping

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Additional chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until fully combined.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold in the sweet corn, chopped jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).

🔥 If you prefer it extra spicy, consider adding some diced pickled jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper!

6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. As soon as they come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with additional jalapeños or crushed red pepper.

9. Let cool slightly before serving, and enjoy warm!

🌽 These muffins freeze well! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer, and reheat them in the oven for a quick snack later.

Variations

• Cheesy Spinach: Substitute the jalapeños with 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and add feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist! 🧀🌱
• Sweet & Spicy: Add 1/4 cup of diced pineapple or mango to the batter for a unique balance of sweet and spicy flavors!
• Savory Herb: Mix in a teaspoon of cumin and a tablespoon of fresh cilantro for added depth and a hint of the Southwest! 🌿
• Low-carb: Replace the flour with almond flour and omit the sugar for a low-carb version that's still scrumptious!

Enjoy your spicy twist on the classic corn muffin that will awaken your taste buds and elevate any meal! 🎉🥳