Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Waffles

These Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Waffles with Honey Butter Drizzle bring a perfect balance of sweet and spicy to your brunch table. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, the combination of sharp cheddar and jalapeño heat takes traditional cornbread waffles to an exciting new level. Whether you want something quick and satisfying for a weekday breakfast or a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings, these waffles will become an instant favorite in your kitchen.

I first made this recipe for a weekend brunch with friends, and the spicy-sweet combo had everyone asking for seconds. The honey butter drizzle adds a decadent touch that keeps this recipe feeling special.

Ingredients

• Yellow cornmeal: creates the signature cornbread texture and flavor choose a medium grind for the best results
• All-purpose flour: balances the cornmeal providing structure look for fresh flour (check expiration) for rise and tenderness
• Baking powder: acts as the leavening agent to make your waffles fluffy and light
• Sugar: adds just a hint of sweetness to complement the savory notes
• Salt: boosts all the flavors making every bite taste more vibrant
• Buttermilk: brings moisture and a subtle tang that tenderizes the batter
• Large eggs: bind ingredients together and enrich the flavor
• Melted butter: adds richness and a subtle nutty taste
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: melts perfectly for gooey, savory pockets
• Jalapeño: finely diced provides heat remove seeds to reduce the spice if preferred
• Chopped fresh parsley: adds a pop of color and freshness but is optional
• Unsalted butter: soft for mixing into honey butter for creamy sweetness
• Honey: sweetens both the drizzle and the butter spread
• Pinch of salt: for the honey butter enhances the flavor contrast
• Optional cayenne or smoked paprika: in honey butter gives an extra smoky or spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Honey Butter:

In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with honey and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or whisk to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For a spicy twist, stir in cayenne or smoked paprika. Set aside this luscious spread to use when the waffles are ready.

Prepare the Waffle Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until fully combined. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined—some lumps are okay because overmixing can make waffles tough. Finally, fold in shredded cheddar and diced jalapeño gently to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Cook the Waffles:

Preheat your waffle iron following the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease it with cooking spray or melted butter. Pour about half a cup of batter into the center of the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Transfer cooked waffles to a warm oven set around 200 degrees Fahrenheit to keep them crispy while you finish the rest.

Serve:

Stack the waffles on a plate and dollop generous pats of your honey butter on top. Drizzle with extra honey for a sweet finish. Garnish with fresh parsley or thin slices of jalapeño for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy these waffles warm and fresh for all their texture and flavor to shine.

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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the honey butter spread. It transforms simple cornbread waffles into a luxurious treat every time. I remember making these for my family during a chilly morning and watching everyone’s eyes light up with the first bite—pure comfort and joy on a plate.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster or oven to bring back their crispness. For longer storage, cool waffles completely, then freeze in a single layer in freezer bags. Reheat straight from frozen for a quick and tasty breakfast fix.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter and substitute eggs with flax eggs (one tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons water equals one egg). Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack to amp up the spice or feta for a tangy contrast. Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten. Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or cilantro folded into the batter for different flavor notes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve waffles alongside scrambled or fried eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty brunch.
• Pair with fresh fruits such as berries or peach slices to brighten the plate.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices for a creamier texture.
• Complement with a fresh glass of orange juice or a spicy Bloody Mary to complete your meal.

Pro Tips

• Toast the cornmeal lightly in a dry pan before mixing for a nuttier flavor that really elevates the waffles.
• Don’t skip preheating the waffle iron fully; it ensures the waffles become crispy rather than soggy.
• Keep the cooked waffles warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the batch to serve them hot and fresh all at once.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare batter ahead of time?

Yes, the batter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Gently stir before cooking to ensure even texture.

→ How do I control the spice level?

Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat, or add them back for a spicier bite. You can also adjust the honey butter with or without cayenne or smoked paprika.

→ What sides go well with these waffles?

They pair well with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or dollops of sour cream and avocado for contrast.

→ Can these waffles be frozen?

Absolutely, let them cool completely and freeze in a sealed bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best results.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain crispness.

→ What’s a good cheese alternative?

Pepper jack offers extra spice, while feta adds a tangy depth. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.

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