The aroma of freshly baked cornbread, the sizzle of crisp bacon, and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese – these are the scents that take me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Growing up, her Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese were the stuff of legends. Every time we’d visit, my siblings and I would eagerly wait for the moment we could sink our teeth into those fluffy, flavor-packed pies.
Grandma always had a knack for taking classic comfort foods and giving them a delightful twist. Her Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies were no exception. The combination of savory cornbread, spicy jalapeños, and the irresistible duo of bacon and goat cheese was simply divine. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through our family, and one that I’m thrilled to share with you today.
Table of Contents
Why This Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
What sets this Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cornbread base is tender and moist, with a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the heat of the jalapeños. The crumbled bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy, tangy goat cheese ties everything together, creating a harmonious and addictive flavor profile.
But the real secret lies in the technique. Grandma always insisted on folding the batter gently, to maintain the light and airy texture. And the trick to getting those signature whoopie pie shapes? A simple scoop and dollop method that ensures each one is perfectly portioned and baked to perfection.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
1 cup cornmeal: The foundation of these Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese, cornmeal lends a delightful texture and authentic cornbread flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Paired with the cornmeal, the flour helps create a sturdy yet tender crumb.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This rising agent is the key to those light and fluffy whoopie pies.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter adds richness and moistness to the batter.
2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the tender texture.
1 cup milk: Milk provides the perfect moisture level and helps create a smooth, cohesive batter.
1/2 cup diced jalapeños, seeds and membranes removed: These spicy peppers lend a delightful kick to the cornbread.
8 ounces crumbled cooked bacon: The salty, savory bacon is the perfect complement to the cornbread and goat cheese.
8 ounces goat cheese, softened: Tangy, creamy goat cheese is the crowning glory, adding a luxurious filling to these whoopie pies.
Step-by-Step Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese Instructions
Preparing Your Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
With a total time of just 33 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 18 minutes of baking – this Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese recipe is a breeze to whip up. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the batter.
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, and milk until smooth. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and softened goat cheese, mixing just until everything is evenly distributed.
3- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This recipe will yield approximately 12 Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies.
4- Bake the whoopie pies for 18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be slightly domed and the centers should be soft and fluffy.
5- Allow the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6- Once cooled, the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them warm, or at room temperature, and savor the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and creamy in every bite.
Pro Tips for Success
- Dice the jalapeños with care, removing the seeds and membranes to control the heat level. This ensures the spice is present but not overpowering.
- Use a light hand when folding the batter to maintain a tender, airy texture in the whoopie pies.
- Invest in a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure consistent sizing and even baking of the pies.
- Don’t be tempted to overbake – keep an eye on them, and pull the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies from the oven as soon as they’re lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Serving and Storing Your Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
Perfect Pairings for Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
These Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese are the perfect addition to any gathering, serving 12 people. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack, pairing beautifully with a crisp, refreshing salad or a hearty chili. For a beverage pairing, try a cold craft beer or a bold red wine that can stand up to the bold flavors.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the batter up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the whoopie pies in advance and freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
Creative Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the jalapeños for a different type of pepper, like a spicier habanero or a milder bell pepper. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor twist. For a seasonal variation, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or folding in diced roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or roasted corn.
Making Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, replace the butter with plant-based butter or oil, the eggs with flax or chia eggs, and the goat cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. For a low-carb adaptation, use almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour and cornmeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute a different type of pepper for the jalapeños?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with a variety of peppers, such as habaneros, serrano, or even mild bell peppers, to adjust the heat level to your preference.
Q: How long do the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies take to bake?
A: This recipe has a total time of 33 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 18 minutes of baking.
Q: Can I make the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The batter can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also bake the whoopie pies in advance and freeze them for up to 2 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese recipe yields 12 servings.
Q: What should I do if the whoopie pies don’t rise properly?
A: Make sure you’re using fresh baking powder and that you’re not overmixing the batter. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking.
Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese
- Total Time: 33
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These savory Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese are a delightful bite-sized treat that combines the spicy-sweet flavors of jalapeño cornbread with the creamy, tangy goodness of bacon-infused goat cheese. Perfect for entertaining, game days, or anytime you need a tasty snack.
Ingredients
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños, seeds and membranes removed
– 8 ounces crumbled cooked bacon
– 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and milk.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the diced jalapeños.
5. Scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming about 12 equal-sized mounds.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cornbread whoopie pies are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the whoopie pies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
8. In a medium bowl, mix together the crumbled cooked bacon and softened goat cheese until well combined.
9. Using a knife or small spoon, top each cooled whoopie pie with a generous dollop of the bacon goat cheese filling.
10. Serve the Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
For a spicier version, leave some of the jalapeño seeds and membranes intact. If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of honey or sugar to the batter. These whoopie pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 18
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese are a true flavor sensation that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. With their perfectly balanced combination of savory, spicy, and creamy elements, these whoopie pies are sure to become a new family favorite.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the magic that my grandmother shared with us all those years ago. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it – the possibilities are endless! Let me know in the comments how your Jalapeno Cornbread Whoopie Pies with Bacon Goat Cheese turn out. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious adventures in the kitchen.
