Chili Corn Muffins 🌽🌶️
A Flavorful Twist on Classic Corn Muffins
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Description:
Experience a delightful fusion of classic corn muffins with a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This recipe, inspired by Bon Appetit (July, 1987), allows you to adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing the number of jalapeños. For us, six jalapeños strike the perfect balance. Whether served as a side or a snack, these chili corn muffins are sure to impress!
Category: Quick Breads
Keywords: Breads, Under 60 Minutes, Oven
Ingredients 🛒
- 2 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal 🌽
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 6 jalapeño chiles, finely chopped (adjust to taste) 🌶️
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup honey 🍯
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Nutrition Information per Muffin
- Calories: 168.1 kcal
- Fat: 6.6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Cholesterol: 29.3 mg
- Sodium: 244.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 25.1 g
- Fiber: 1.6 g
- Sugar: 6.7 g
- Protein: 3.6 g
Instructions 📋
-
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready for baking, providing an even and consistent temperature for your muffins. -
Prepare the Muffin Tin
Butter 24 to 28 muffin cups generously. This step is crucial to prevent the muffins from sticking, ensuring they come out easily once baked. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well blended. This dry mix forms the base of your muffin batter. -
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, finely chopped onion, chopped jalapeños, milk, honey, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. -
Blend Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring the batter is well blended without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. -
Fill the Muffin Cups
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows enough room for the muffins to rise as they bake. -
Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. The muffins are done when the tops are golden, slightly split, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these spicy delights warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Chili Corn Muffins 👩🍳
- Adjusting the Heat: If you prefer milder muffins, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For extra heat, add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Adding Cheese: For a cheesy twist, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the batter before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: These muffins pair wonderfully with chili, soups, and stews. They also make a great snack on their own, especially with a dab of butter.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
Savory Pairings: Serve these chili corn muffins alongside a hearty bowl of chili or a steaming pot of soup for a satisfying meal. The muffins add a delightful crunch and a spicy kick that complements the warmth of these dishes.
Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy them as a savory addition to your breakfast or brunch spread. They pair beautifully with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
Party Bites: These muffins make excellent party snacks or appetizers. Serve them with a variety of dips, such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, for a flavorful and fun treat.
Picnic Perfect: Pack these muffins for a picnic or outdoor gathering. Their robust flavor and easy portability make them an ideal choice for al fresco dining.
Freezing Tips: If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, these muffins freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
A Note on Ingredients 🌾
Yellow Cornmeal: The base of these muffins, yellow cornmeal, provides a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that complements the spicy jalapeños. Be sure to use a medium or fine grind for the best texture.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a bright, spicy kick. Adjust the quantity to your heat preference, and always handle them with care to avoid irritation.
Honey: A touch of honey adds sweetness and helps balance the heat from the jalapeños, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Butter and Eggs: These ingredients add richness and moisture to the muffins, ensuring they are tender and flavorful.
Whole Kernel Corn: Adding whole kernel corn provides texture and bursts of sweetness, making each bite interesting and delicious.
Final Thoughts 💭
These Chili Corn Muffins are a wonderful addition to any meal or occasion. Their vibrant flavor and delightful texture make them a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of spice in their food. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a casual brunch, or a festive gathering, these muffins are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every spicy, sweet bite! 🌟
