Save A savory-sweet quick bread that brings together the unique combination of maple syrup, ginger, cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapeños. Baked in a muffin loaf style, it offers a tender crumb and bold flavor, making it the perfect centerpiece for breakfast or brunch.
I first tried this loaf on a chilly weekend morning. The aroma of maple and ginger filled my kitchen, and the cheesy jalapeño kick made it a favorite for everyone who stopped by for brunch.
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: 1/4 cup, cold and cubed
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Jalapeños: 2, seeded and finely diced
- Egg: 1 large
- Pure maple syrup: 1/3 cup
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (or 1 cup milk plus 1 tbsp lemon juice, mixed and rested 5 min)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger.
- Cut in butter:
- Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add mix-ins:
- Stir in shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños until evenly distributed.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, maple syrup, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine and mix:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill pan:
- Spoon the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Garnish (optional):
- Sprinkle extra cheese and sliced jalapeños on top for decoration.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool:
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save Sharing a slice of this biscuit muffin loaf is a weekend tradition in our home. Watching everyone reach for seconds around the breakfast table is the best part.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is delicious served warm with a pat of butter. It also pairs perfectly with chili or tomato soup for a hearty meal.
Storage & Leftovers
Wrap leftovers and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For best texture, reheat slices before serving.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using pepper jack or gouda instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile. You can also add more jalapeños if you like extra heat.
Save This muffin loaf brings together bold flavors for a satisfying brunch. Enjoy it sliced thick with your favorite hot drink.
Common Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes! Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda to vary the flavor or suit your preference.
- → How spicy is this loaf?
It's mildly spicy. For added heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in or use more jalapeños.
- → Is this bread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it's vegetarian as no meat is used. Ensure cheese is vegetarian-friendly if required.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Wrap and keep at room temperature for two days, or refrigerate for up to five days for freshness.
- → Can buttermilk be substituted?
Use milk with lemon juice in place of buttermilk—let it sit 5 minutes for similar results.
- → What can I serve with this loaf?
Try it warm with butter or pair with chili for a comforting meal.