Cornbread Waffles Recipe

If you’re craving something that brings together the satisfying texture of cornbread with the fun crispiness of waffles, this Cornbread Waffles Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful twist on traditional waffles, marrying the grainy sweetness of cornmeal with the fluffy warmth of a classic waffle batter. Whether you’re serving these for breakfast, brunch, or as the star of a comforting dinner, these cornbread waffles promise golden crisp edges with a tender, buttery inside that will brighten up your table and have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something truly charming about this Cornbread Waffles Recipe in how it uses simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create a dish full of texture, subtle sweetness, and rich flavor. Each element plays a crucial role, from the cornmeal that brings heartiness to the batter, to the honey that adds a nuanced touch of sweetness perfect for balancing savory toppings or sides.

• 1 cup Cornmeal: The star ingredient giving the waffles a slightly grainy texture and that unmistakable cornbread flavor.
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour: Helps create structure and tenderness for perfectly balanced waffles.
• 1 Tbsp. Baking Powder: Your secret weapon for light and fluffy waffles with a pleasant rise.
• 1 tsp. Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 Tbsp. Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the honey and cornmeal.
• 1 Tbsp. Honey: Brings a rich, natural sweetness with a sticky-smooth texture that’s wonderful in the batter.
• 1 1/2 cups Buttermilk: Gives the waffles a tender crumb and subtle tang that pairs beautifully with the cornbread notes.
• 4 Tbsp. Butter melted: Adds richness and helps the waffles crisp up lushly on the outside.
• 1 Egg: Binds everything together and adds to the fluffy texture.

How to Make Cornbread Waffles Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Waffle Iron

Before diving into the batter, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your waffle maker isn’t non-stick, a light spray with cooking spray or brushing with butter will ensure your cornbread waffles release easily and develop a beautifully crisp exterior.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the honey, buttermilk, melted butter, and egg. Whisk these together until fully blended. This mixture infuses the batter with moisture, sweetness, and richness, and it’s what will help create the tender, slightly tangy crumb that is so irresistible in this Cornbread Waffles Recipe.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mixing these dry components evenly is crucial for an even rise and flavor balance throughout the waffles.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir gently until well combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and help keep the waffles light and tender rather than dense.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Pour enough batter into your preheated waffle iron to just cover the surface and close the lid. Cook according to your waffle iron’s guidelines until golden and crisp on the outside. This will usually take about 4 to 6 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

How to Serve Cornbread Waffles Recipe

Garnishes

Top these cornbread waffles simply with a pat of butter and a drizzle of warm maple syrup for the ultimate comfort breakfast. For something savory, add a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream, which beautifully complements the cornmeal’s sweetness.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing your cornmeal waffles with fried chicken for a soul-satisfying chicken and waffles combo. Alternatively, fresh fruit or a crisp green salad offers a refreshing balance that brightens the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cornbread Waffles Recipe into sliders by layering the waffles with crispy fried chicken and cheddar cheese for a fun and hearty meal. You can also cut waffles into bite-sized pieces and serve them as part of a brunch buffet with various toppings and spreads for guests to customize.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras, place leftover cornbread waffles in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy, tasty breakfast or snack on busy mornings.

Freezing

These waffles freeze beautifully. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. Stored this way, they keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat frozen or refrigerated waffles in a toaster or toaster oven to regain that crisp exterior. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute milk for buttermilk in this Cornbread Waffles Recipe?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to the milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes will mimic buttermilk’s acidity and ensure your waffles stay tender.

What other sweeteners can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup, agave nectar, or even granulated sugar work well as alternatives, though honey offers a unique floral sweetness that’s hard to beat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum or similar binding agents for the best texture.

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

Make sure your waffle iron is properly preheated and generously greased with cooking spray or melted butter. Avoid opening the iron too early while cooking.

Can these cornbread waffles be made vegan?

With some adjustments like swapping the butter for plant-based margarine, using a flax egg in place of the egg, and a dairy-free milk with a splash of vinegar instead of buttermilk, you can make a vegan version that’s just as tasty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something simply magical about this Cornbread Waffles Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to whip up and wonderfully versatile, these waffles bring charm and comfort to any meal. Whether you enjoy them sweet or savory, as a simple breakfast or an indulgent dinner, they are sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Cornbread Waffles Recipe

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These Cornbread Waffles are a delightful twist on classic waffles, combining the hearty texture of cornmeal with the fluffy lightness of traditional waffle batter. Perfect for breakfast or as a base for chicken and waffle sliders, these waffles bring a slightly sweet and savory flavor, complemented by honey and buttermilk for moisture and richness.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 waffles
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup Cornmeal
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 Tbsp. Baking Powder
• 1 tsp. Salt
• 1 Tbsp. Sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp. Honey
• 1 1/2 cups Buttermilk
• 4 Tbsp. Butter, melted
• 1 Egg

Instructions

1. Preheat the waffle iron: Turn on your waffle iron and allow it to heat fully. If your waffle iron tends to stick, spray it lightly with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of waffles.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, buttermilk, melted butter, and the egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly mixed.
4. Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep waffles tender.
5. Cook waffles: Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, usually about 4-6 minutes depending on your waffle iron.
6. Assemble sliders: For chicken and waffle sliders, layer the freshly made cornbread waffles with crispy fried chicken and cheddar cheese to create a savory-sweet bite perfect for any meal.

Notes

• Use buttermilk for a tangy flavor and tender texture, but regular milk can be a substitute with a teaspoon of vinegar added.
• Adjust the cooking time depending on your waffle iron to avoid undercooked or burnt waffles.
• These waffles can be kept warm in a low oven if making a large batch.
• To keep waffles crispy, place them on a wire rack rather than stacking.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk mixed with lemon juice.