Pre-heat the oven to 400°. Generously grease the bottom and sides of an 8 x 8 glass baking dish or cups of a 12-cup muffin pan.
In a large bowl, mix dry ingredients. Cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pepper and salt.
In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over low heat. Set aside to cool slightly for a few minutes. In another large bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, eggs. Add the melted butter and the minced chipotle chiles.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and stir until almost combined but with some lumps. Fold in the Cheddar and scallions, and stir slightly until just combined.
Spoon the batter in 1/4-cup portions into the prepared muffin pan or pour into greased 8 x 8 glass baking dish. Top each muffin with a jalapeño slice for garnish, and bake until the tops are golden and the muffins are cooked through, about 18 minutes. If baking cornbread, allow to bake for 20 - 25 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, with butter and honey.