Description
Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles combine the rustic texture of cornbread with the convenience and fun of waffles. Infused with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy pickled jalapeños, these waffles are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and deliver a delightful sweet-savory-spicy flavor perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil/coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Add-ins
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (adjust to taste)
For Cooking
- Cooking spray or melted butter for greasing the waffle iron
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or melted butter to ensure waffles release easily and crisp up perfectly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended. This mixture forms the base for your waffle batter.
- Blend Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and honey (if using). Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined to impart tanginess and richness.
- Mix It All Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep waffles light and fluffy. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pickled jalapeños, the key flavors in the recipe.
- Cook the Waffles: Spoon about 125–160 ml (approximately 1/2 to 2/3 cup) of batter onto the hot waffle iron. Close and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and easily release from the iron.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the waffles hot off the iron with your choice of butter, extra shredded cheese, or honey drizzle. For a complete meal, pair with fried eggs, crispy bacon, or spicy salsa to enhance the flavor experience.
Notes
- Substitute buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon or vinegar if needed.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your preferred heat level.
- Use cooking spray or melted butter to prevent waffles from sticking to the iron.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense waffles—the batter should be just combined.
- These waffles are best served immediately for optimal crispiness but can be reheated in a toaster or oven.
