Save A savory-sweet quick bread combining maple syrup, ginger, cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapeños, baked in a muffin loaf style for a tender, flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or brunch.
The first time I baked this muffin loaf, my kitchen filled with the warming aroma of maple and ginger. The cheesy, spicy bite has become a weekend favorite whenever we crave something comforting yet exciting.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups
- Baking powder: 1 tbsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground ginger: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): 1/4 cup
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): 1 cup
- Jalapeños (seeded and finely diced): 2
- Large egg: 1
- Pure maple syrup: 1/3 cup
- Buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, mixed and rested 5 min): 1 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prep Pan:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger.
- Cut in Butter:
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese & Jalapeños:
- Stir in shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg, maple syrup, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined, do not overmix.
- Bake:
- Spoon batter into prepared pan and smooth top. Optionally, garnish with extra cheese and sliced jalapeños. Bake 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool:
- Cool loaf in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save Whenever our family gathers for brunch, this loaf is requested by both spice-lovers and the sweet tooths. It brings a cheerful twist and always disappears quickly from the table.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, pastry blender or fork, 9x5-inch loaf pan, parchment paper, spatula, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, egg. Seek substitutes for dairy or egg allergies, and always check labels for allergen info.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
Calories: 270, Total Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 34 g, Protein: 7 g
Save This bread brings a perfect balance of sweetness, spice and cheese. Enjoy a slice fresh from the oven or toasted for next-day bliss.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Swap cheddar for gouda, pepper jack, or your favorite melty cheese for different flavors.
- → How spicy is this muffin loaf?
It has a gentle heat from diced jalapeños. Leave seeds in for extra spice or use mild peppers if preferred.
- → Can buttermilk be substituted?
Yes. Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice, let rest 5 minutes, and use as a buttermilk replacement.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this loaf is vegetarian. Ensure cheese and other ingredients are free from animal-based rennet.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Wrap in an airtight container and keep at room temperature two days or refrigerate up to five days for freshness.
- → What can I serve with it?
Enjoy warm with butter, alongside chili, soups, or fresh salads for a satisfying meal pairing.