Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Pancakes

Sweet corn pancakes loaded with jalapeno and sharp cheddar are my favorite way to make a breakfast or brunch that feels special yet comes together in under half an hour. These pancakes deliver just the right balance of sweetness from corn and honey with savory cheddar cheese melty inside and smoky bacon for a little bit of luxury. They are perfect on a cozy weekend morning or when you want breakfast for dinner and need something both nostalgic and a little spicy.

I started making these pancakes when my husband requested something bold for a Sunday breakfast and now they are our go to dish for family gatherings because everyone loves the kick from fresh jalapenos and crispy bacon.

Ingredients

• Flour: gives the pancakes structure use all purpose for classic results or rice flour for gluten free choose a fine grind for best texture
• Baking powder and baking soda: these lift the pancakes and keep them fluffy make sure they are fresh for best rising power
• Salt: highlights the flavors of both the cheese and bacon look for kosher salt for clean seasoning
• Honey: brings natural sweetness contrast to the spicy jalapeno choose a local variety for added depth
• Buttermilk: tenderizes the crumb and gives tang fresh buttermilk always has the best flavor but good quality cultured buttermilk works
• Eggs: bind everything together and add richness select large eggs for predictable results
• Butter: makes the pancakes moist and flavorful use real butter and melt it gently to keep it from separating
• Jalapenos: give the bright spicy punch thin slices work best for distributing heat use firm glossy peppers for maximum flavor
• Corn: adds pops of sweetness and texture fresh corn off the cob is best when in season but frozen works well too
• Cheddar cheese: brings savory melty flavor opt for sharp cheddar and grate your own for maximum melt and flavor
• Bacon: smoky richness and crunch use thick cut or quality smoked bacon and cook until just crisp
• Green onions: add color and gentle onion flavor choose fresh bright greens for the best taste
• Optional cream cheese: brings extra richness and mimics jalapeno popper flavor cube it for creamy bursts in the batter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together flour baking powder baking soda and salt then make a well in the center and add the honey buttermilk eggs and melted butter stir until just combined for a lump free but not overmixed batter

Add the Flavor:

Fold in the sliced jalapenos corn cheddar cheese crumbled bacon and green onions mixing gently so you do not break up the cheese or overwork the batter

Heat the Pan:

Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of oil when hot

Portion and Cook:

Scoop about one quarter to one third cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet spacing as needed cook for one to two minutes until small bubbles form on top and the edges look set then flip carefully and cook another one to two minutes until golden brown and cooked through

Repeat and Serve:

Continue with remaining batter adding more butter or oil if needed serve hot with toppings like extra green onions a drizzle of honey or a side of sour cream

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Corn is my favorite ingredient because it gives every bite a sweet pop and whenever I serve these pancakes at a family brunch everyone immediately asks for the recipe and comes back for seconds

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before storing stack pancakes between sheets of parchment in an airtight container they will keep in the fridge for three days and can be frozen for up to a month Warm them in a toaster oven or low oven so the outside stays crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a mild smoky touch Try turkey bacon for a lighter version or skip meat for vegetarian pancakes If you cannot find fresh jalapenos use jarred ones but drain and pat dry

Serving Suggestions

Top pancakes with sliced avocado a spoonful of salsa or a dollop of sour cream I love to serve them alongside fresh fruit and a little arugula salad for a balanced plate

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Cultural Roots

Corn pancakes draw on Southern and Southwestern traditions where corn jalapenos and cheddar are classic flavors These pancakes put a fun twist on jalapeno poppers a favorite party snack in our house

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for rice flour to create gluten-free pancakes with excellent texture.

→ Is fresh or frozen corn better?

Both work well—fresh corn brings extra crunch, while frozen is convenient and just as sweet.

→ How spicy are these pancakes with jalapeno?

The heat level depends on the amount and preparation of jalapenos. Remove seeds for milder flavor.

→ Are there vegetarian options?

Absolutely! Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version, and increase cheese or cream cheese for richness.

→ What toppings pair best with these pancakes?

Try sour cream, extra sliced green onions, or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty finish. Avocado slices are also great.

→ Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

The batter can be mixed a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, but for best results, cook pancakes fresh.