Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for a pop of color!)
• 1/2 cup diced smoked beef bacon (crispy and flavorful!)
• 1/2 cup diced fresh jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for a fresh green touch!)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, honey, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Gently fold in the cheddar cheese, smoked beef bacon, diced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. The colors will be vibrant and inviting!
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let them cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.