Description
Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles offer a delightful twist on traditional cornbread by incorporating sharp cheddar cheese and spicy pickled jalapeños baked into crispy, golden waffles. Perfect for a savory breakfast or snack, these waffles combine creamy, cheesy goodness with a subtle kick, all cooked conveniently in a waffle iron.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- Cooking spray or additional melted butter for the waffle iron
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease it with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and honey (if using) until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pickled jalapeños.
- Cook the Waffles: Pour an appropriate amount of batter (about 1/2 to 2/3 cup, depending on your waffle iron) onto the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook according to the machine’s instructions until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
- Serve: Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and serve hot. They’re delicious on their own, or you can top them with butter, additional cheese, sour cream, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños depending on how spicy you want your waffles.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure waffles remain light and fluffy.
- Waffles can be kept warm in a low oven if making multiple batches.
- Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor; mild cheddar can be used but will be less intense.
- Optionally add a tablespoon of honey for a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
