Cornbread Waffles Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances the comforting heartiness of cornbread with the fun, crispy texture of waffles, you’re about to fall in love with Cornbread Waffles. This recipe brings together the rich, cheesy goodness of cheddar, the subtle heat from jalapeños and green chilies, and the tanginess of buttermilk, all baked into golden, crispy waffles that serve as an irresistible base. Whether you dress them up with chili and sour cream or enjoy them simply, these Cornbread Waffles are a celebration of Southern-inspired flavors with a twist that will make any mealtime feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender crumb that cornmeal brings to the spicy kick of jalapeño and the creamy sharpness of cheddar, you’ll find each component is essential to creating these memorable Cornbread Waffles.

• Buttermilk: Adds a lovely tanginess and helps keep the waffles tender and moist.
• Flour: Provides structure and balances out the cornmeal’s texture.
• Cornmeal: Gives the waffles their signature gritty, hearty texture and golden color.
• Cheddar (grated): Melds into the batter for pockets of cheesy richness.
• Butter (melted): Keeps the waffles moist and enhances the flavor with a buttery depth.
• Egg: Binds everything together and adds fluffiness.
• Jalapeño (diced, seeds removed): Brings just the right amount of fresh, spicy heat.
• Diced green chilies: Adds smoky complexity and additional warmth.
• Baking powder: Helps the batter rise for lighter waffles.
• Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for the perfect lift.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle earthiness and vibrant color.
• Cayenne: Gives a gentle kick of spice to balance the flavors.
• Salt: Amplifies all the other ingredients and rounds out the taste.

How to Make Cornbread Waffles

Step 1: Heat and Prepare Your Waffle Iron

Before diving into the batter, preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This step ensures your Cornbread Waffles will cook evenly without sticking, giving you that perfect golden crust every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, paprika, cayenne, and salt. This dry mix is where the waffles get their structure and punchy flavor foundation, so give it a good whisk to blend everything evenly.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Stir in the grated cheddar, diced jalapeño, and green chilies. This mixture adds richness, moisture, and bursts of spicy, cheesy delight in every bite.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here — a few lumps are perfectly fine. This ensures your Cornbread Waffles stay light and tender rather than dense.

Step 5: Cook Those Waffles

Scoop the appropriate amount of batter onto your preheated waffle maker, close the lid, and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the waffles turn a beautiful golden brown with a crispy exterior. Remove and repeat with the remaining batter, letting each waffle cool slightly to hold its crispness.

How to Serve Cornbread Waffles

Garnishes

The best part of Cornbread Waffles is dressing them up to your taste. Top them with a generous spoonful of chili for warmth, a sprinkle of extra cheddar for cheesiness, and a dollop of sour cream for cooling richness. Finish with chopped green onions or cilantro to add freshness and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

These waffles pair wonderfully with classic Southern sides like collard greens, sautéed okra, or a crisp salad to balance out the hearty flavors. For a brunch twist, consider serving alongside crispy bacon or fried eggs for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Stack the Cornbread Waffles like a cake with layers of chili and cheese in between for a decadent presentation. Or cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve as party appetizers with dips such as guacamole or a spicy ranch. Either way, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cornbread Waffles, no worries! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for quick and easy reheats when you want that comforting flavor without the wait.

Freezing

To enjoy Cornbread Waffles later, freeze them by placing cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to two months, letting you savor these flavors anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated Cornbread Waffles by popping them in a toaster or oven at 350°F for about 5 to 10 minutes until crispy and warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture lose its delightful crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make Cornbread Waffles without jalapeños?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the jalapeños. The diced green chilies still provide subtle heat and smoky depth, so the waffles remain flavorful without being overpowering.

What type of cornmeal is best for this recipe?

Use medium or fine cornmeal for the best texture. Too coarse can make the waffles gritty, while fine cornmeal gives a tender crumb with just enough crunch to make the texture interesting.

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

You can, but the tangy flavor and tender texture from buttermilk are key to these Cornbread Waffles’ charm. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I prevent the waffles from sticking to the waffle iron?

Preheating your waffle iron thoroughly and greasing it well with nonstick spray or melted butter before each batch helps prevent sticking. Also, avoid lifting the lid too soon; letting the waffles cook fully ensures they release easily.

Can I make these Cornbread Waffles vegan?

While this recipe relies on eggs, buttermilk, and cheese, you can experiment with vegan substitutes such as plant-based milk mixed with lemon juice, vegan cheese, and flax eggs. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly, but they can still be tasty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Cornbread Waffles that makes them stand out from ordinary waffles or cornbread alone. They’re warm, flavorful, and full of delightful textures that bring any meal to life. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dinner, or as a snack, I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every crispy, cheesy, spicy bite as much as I do!

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