Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles combine the rich, buttery texture of cornbread with flavors of cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños. This fun twist on the classic cornbread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, delivering a perfect balance of heat and savory goodness. The waffles can be served as a savory breakfast, a side dish, or even as a base for a tasty sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving something different, these waffles will become an instant favorite!

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, milk, and melted butter until fully combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños.
Pour the batter onto the waffle iron (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup depending on your waffle iron size), spreading it evenly. Close the waffle iron and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
Carefully remove the waffles and place them on a cooling rack to keep them crisp.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or honey butter.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 to 6 waffles, depending on the size of your waffle iron.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegan version: Swap the buttermilk and milk for plant-based milk and use a flax egg or other egg substitute. Choose a dairy-free cheese alternative for the cheddar.
Spicy kick: Add more jalapeños or include some diced green chilies to increase the heat.
Cheese variety: Use a different cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on flavor.
Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, chives, or thyme to bring more layers of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Let the waffles cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat waffles in a toaster, toaster oven, or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispness. You can also warm them up in the microwave, but they might lose some of their crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cornbread waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in a toaster or oven to maintain their crispness.

2. How do I make the waffles spicier?

To make the waffles spicier, you can add more jalapeños or include other hot peppers like serrano or habanero. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper also enhances the heat.

3. Can I freeze these waffles?

Yes, these waffles freeze well! Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, toast or warm them in the oven.

4. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk instead of buttermilk. If you want to mimic the tang of buttermilk, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using.

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

Make sure to grease your waffle iron well with non-stick spray or melted butter before adding the batter. Also, avoid overfilling the waffle iron, as the batter can spill over and cause sticking.

6. Can I make these waffles without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or another egg substitute to make the recipe egg-free.

7. Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with texture.

8. Can I make these waffles savory without the cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you want a more neutral savory flavor. You can even add some cooked beef or sausage for a more hearty dish.

9. How do I make the waffles crispier?

To make the waffles crispier, you can cook them a bit longer in the waffle iron or place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes after they’re cooked.

10. Can I add corn kernels to the batter?

Yes, adding corn kernels will give the waffles a delightful texture and a burst of sweetness. Just fold them into the batter gently before cooking.

Conclusion

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are a delicious and creative twist on traditional cornbread. They offer the perfect blend of crispy texture, savory cheese, and a hint of heat from the jalapeños. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as a side, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor, these waffles are an irresistible treat you’ll want to enjoy again and again!