Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter, or line it with muffin liners for easier removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until everything is evenly blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, honey, and melted butter until well incorporated. Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth mixture.
Gradually pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine as this will help maintain the muffin’s texture.
Carefully fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, and corn kernels. Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter for a deliciously flavorful bite.
Using a scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup in the prepared tin about 3/4 of the way full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes. The muffins are done when their tops are a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, allow the muffins to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm with butter for a delightful treat. Garnish with extra cheese and jalapeño for presentation.