Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread with Zesty Lime Drizzle

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This Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread with Zesty Lime Drizzle is not your average side dish. It’s a golden, tender cornbread bursting with bold jalapeño flavor, a hint of honeyed sweetness, and a citrusy kick from a tangy lime glaze. Perfectly moist and slightly crumbly, each bite balances heat and sweet, making it an unforgettable companion to any meal or a standout on its own.

Whether you’re serving it with chili, grilled meats, or a warm bowl of soup, this cornbread turns any table into a flavor celebration. And let’s not forget the eye-catching topping: thinly sliced jalapeños and a sprinkle of cilantro give it flair that matches its bold taste.

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What Kind of Cornmeal Works Best for This Cornbread?

For the best texture and flavor, go with medium-grind yellow cornmeal. It gives you just enough texture without being gritty. Avoid instant or self-rising cornmeal, as it changes both the flavor and crumb. The medium grind plays well with the moisture from the buttermilk and honey, holding its own against the bold toppings and lime drizzle.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread with Zesty Lime Drizzle

• Yellow Cornmeal: The backbone of the recipe. It gives that classic cornbread flavor and subtle grit.
• All-Purpose Flour: Softens the texture and helps the bread rise just enough to stay light and tender.
• Baking Powder + Baking Soda: Work together to give it a good lift and fluffy crumb.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it.
• Honey: Adds a layer of deep, rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spice.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cornbread moist while adding tangy depth.
• Eggs: Bind everything and contribute to the light, cake-like structure.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and that unmistakable buttery flavor.
• Fresh Jalapeños: Brings the heat and crunch. Remove seeds for less spice, or keep them in if you love the burn.
• Fresh Cilantro: Offers a bright herbal note that complements both the spice and the citrus.
• Lime Juice + Zest: Used in the drizzle, it cuts through the richness and brightens the flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Blends with lime juice to create a sweet-tart drizzle.

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How To Make the Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread with Zesty Lime Drizzle

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This helps get that irresistible crispy edge.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your dry base is evenly combined and ready to support the moisture later.

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Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, honey, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This mix will create that perfectly moist texture we love.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or you’ll end up with a tough cornbread. Fold in finely chopped jalapeños and chopped cilantro.

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Step 5: Bake It to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared skillet or pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Add jalapeño slices on top for that bold, decorative finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

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Step 6: Make the Lime Drizzle

While the cornbread bakes, whisk together fresh lime juice, lime zest, and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency with more juice or sugar until it’s pourable but not too thin.

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Step 7: Drizzle and Garnish

Once baked, let the cornbread cool for 10-15 minutes. Then, drizzle the lime glaze generously over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Your Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread

Serve this cornbread warm with a pad of butter melting into each slice or alongside your favorite chili, soup, or barbecue meal. It’s also an exciting addition to brunch, especially when paired with eggs and avocado. For extra indulgence, a drizzle of hot honey or a scoop of whipped honey butter makes it downright crave-worthy.

To store leftovers, wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F or microwave for 15-20 seconds. The lime drizzle holds up beautifully, even after storing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this cornbread?

The spice level is customizable. Removing jalapeño seeds gives you a mild heat, while keeping them in brings more of a kick. You can also reduce the amount used if you’re sensitive to spice.

Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?

Yes! Pickled jalapeños add a tangy twist and softer texture. They’re great for a more mellow flavor.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute with a mix of regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Just make sure your cornmeal is labeled gluten-free too.

Can this be made in advance?

Yes, it’s great made a day ahead. Store it covered and add the lime drizzle just before serving for best freshness.

Can I freeze it?

Totally! Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.

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Want More Savory Side Ideas?

If you loved this Spicy Sweet Jalapeño Cornbread, these other savory dishes will hit the spot too:

• Honey Butter Skillet Corn for a creamy, sweet and salty twist.
• Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions to add bold Southern flavor to any meal.
• Funeral Potatoes when you’re craving cheesy comfort.
• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies for a hearty veggie-packed side.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli if you want something filling with bold creamy garlic notes.

These pair beautifully with everything from grilled meats to cozy weeknight dinners.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when your next chili night needs a spicy upgrade.

And I’d love to hear from you in the comments—did you go light on the jalapeños or crank up the heat? Maybe you added cheddar or used lime zest in the batter?

Let’s swap ideas and help each other get creative in the kitchen. And if you want more bold, flavorful creations like this one, follow along on Pinterest here: Life with Nina Recipes

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