Spicy Cheddar Cornbread in a Bread Machine

This bread machine cornbread gets savory flavor from sharp cheddar and mild diced green chiles. The bread machine handles the mixing and baking, making it an easy side for chili night, a barbecue or a weeknight meal.

Follow your bread machine’s instructions for ingredient order, then use its Quick Bread or Cake setting with a Light crust.

A Cheesy Cornbread with a Little Kick

I love a good homemade cornbread, especially when there’s a big pot of chili or soup on the stove. This version is a little different because we’re making it right in the bread machine!

Sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful savory flavor, while mild diced green chiles give the bread just a little kick without making it overly spicy.

And one of my favorite things about this recipe is that the bread machine does the mixing and baking. You get a beautiful homemade loaf without having to heat up the oven.

My Tips for the Best Bread Machine Cornbread

Use the correct bread machine setting. This is a quick bread, not a traditional yeast bread. Choose your machine’s Quick Bread or Cake cycle and select a light crust if that option is available.

Follow your machine’s ingredient order. Bread machines aren’t all designed the same way. I add the ingredients in the order shown in my recipe, but always check the instructions for your particular model.

Measure the flour carefully. Spoon the bread flour into your measuring cup and level it with a straight edge. Scooping directly from the bag can pack in too much flour and make the bread dry.

Use room-temperature ingredients. I like to have the milk and eggs at room temperature and let the melted butter cool slightly before adding everything to the bread pan.

Choose sharp cheddar. Sharp cheddar gives the cornbread a wonderful cheesy flavor that holds its own alongside the cornmeal and green chiles.

Let the loaf cool before slicing. This is especially important with cornbread because it can be crumbly when hot. I recommend cooling it on a wire rack for at least an hour before cutting.

What to Serve with Spicy Cheddar Cornbread

This cornbread is a natural partner for chili, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it.

I love serving it with hearty beef stew, homemade soup, or barbecue. It’s also delicious alongside pulled pork or grilled chicken.

And don’t forget breakfast! Toast a slice and add a little butter for a savory start to the day.

If you like the combination of sweet and spicy, try serving it with a little honey butter. The sweetness is wonderful with the cheddar and green chiles.

Understanding Bread Machine Quick Bread Settings

One thing that can be confusing about bread machines is that different models use different names for their settings.

For this recipe, I use a Quick Bread or Cake cycle with a light crust. The cycle on my machine takes approximately 1 hour and 38–44 minutes.

Because this cornbread uses baking powder and baking soda rather than yeast, it doesn’t need the long kneading and rising cycles used for traditional bread.

Check your bread machine’s manual to find the setting designed for quick breads or cakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cornbread very spicy?

Not at all! I use a 4-ounce (113 g) can of mild diced green chiles. They add flavor and a little warmth without overwhelming the cornbread.

If you enjoy more heat, you can experiment with hotter green chiles, although that will change the flavor of the original recipe.

Can I make this cornbread without a bread machine?

The recipe was developed for a bread machine, so I haven’t specified a conventional oven baking time. You could adapt it for an oven, but you’d need to adjust the pan size, baking temperature, and cooking time.

Why is my cornbread crumbly?

Cornbread naturally has a more delicate texture than yeast bread. Measuring the flour accurately and allowing the loaf to cool completely before slicing will help it hold together.

Can I substitute another cheese?

Yes! Monterey Jack would give you a milder flavor, while pepper Jack could add a little more heat. I prefer sharp cheddar because it gives the cornbread such a delicious savory taste.

How should I store leftover cornbread?

Once the loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days, or freeze individual slices for up to three months for the best quality.

What size loaf does this recipe make?

This recipe makes one 2-pound loaf. The number of slices will depend on how thickly you cut them.

More Bread Machine and Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making this Spicy Cheddar Cornbread, here are a few more recipes to try.

• Pumpkin Turkey Chili with Italian Sausage – A hearty, flavorful chili with ground turkey, Italian sausage, beans, and pumpkin. A wonderful meal to serve with a slice of cheesy cornbread.
• Bread Machine Pumpkin Bread – Another easy quick bread made right in the bread machine, this time with pumpkin purée and warm fall spices.
• Bread Machine Hawaiian Rolls – Soft, lightly sweet dinner rolls made with pineapple juice and coconut. The bread machine handles the dough before the rolls are shaped and baked in the oven.
• Seeded Rye Bread in a Bread Machine – A hearty homemade loaf made with rye flour, whole wheat flour, molasses, and seeds. Another delicious way to put your bread machine to work.

I love recipes that make homemade cooking easier, and this cheesy cornbread is a perfect example. With a few simple ingredients and the help of your bread machine, you can make a delicious side dish that turns an ordinary bowl of soup or chili into something special.

Watch Dr. J Prepare Spicy Cheddar Cornbread in a Bread Machine

Products used

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KBS Pro Stainless Steel Bread Machine

Luvan 4-Cup Glass Measuring Cup

Victorinox 8-Inch Serrated Bread Knife

Franco Kitchen Pot Holders and Oven Mitt Set