If you love bold flavors with a touch of kick, then you are going to absolutely adore this Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe. Imagine crispy on the outside, tender on the inside waffles bursting with sharp cheddar cheese and the perfect amount of jalapeño heat. These waffles are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, bringing a spicy, cheesy, and buttery experience that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a fun dinner. They offer that comforting cornmeal base with a savory punch that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the ideal texture, flavor, and even color of these waffles. From the nutty cornmeal to the spicy jalapeños, these components come together in perfect harmony.
- Cornmeal: Gives the waffles their traditional cornbread texture and slightly gritty bite that’s so satisfying.
- All-purpose flour: Balances the cornmeal and adds structure for the perfect waffle consistency.
- Baking powder: Adds lift and fluffiness, so these waffles aren’t heavy but light and crispy.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Buttermilk: Provides tanginess and moisture, contributing to tender waffles with a subtle zing.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and give the waffles their golden color and light texture.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and helps with the crispy exterior.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show—oozing cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Fresh jalapeño pepper: Finely chopped to infuse just the right amount of spicy heat.
- Chives or green onions (optional): Bring fresh herbaceous notes for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Begin by whisking together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, which is essential for those fluffy and flavorful waffles that cook perfectly through.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth, then stir in the buttermilk and melted butter. This mixture brings together richness, moisture, and a slight tang that complements the savory cheddar wonderfully.
Step 3: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your waffles nice and tender without becoming tough or rubbery.
Step 4: Fold in the Cheese and Jalapeños
Gently fold the shredded sharp cheddar, finely chopped jalapeño, and optional chives or green onions into the batter. This step ensures every waffle is packed with cheesy, spicy bursts.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Your Waffle Iron
Heat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. A hot iron is key for crispy, golden waffles packed with flavor.
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The smell of cheddar melting and jalapeños warming will have you eagerly waiting.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Carefully remove the waffles and serve them hot. These spicy, cheesy waffles shine best when the cheddar is still melty and the jalapeño flavor is fresh and vibrant.
How to Serve Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
Top your waffles with sliced jalapeños for added heat, a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy contrast, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or chives to brighten every bite. Each garnish elevates things in a special way.
Side Dishes
These waffles pair beautifully with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the spicy and savory flavors. A dollop of sour cream or creamy guacamole is also fantastic for dipping or topping.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the waffles with layers of pulled pork and pickled onions for a game-day feast or cut them into bite-sized pieces for party appetizers. The Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe is versatile enough to shine in any setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor without drying out or becoming soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooled waffles individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, ready to bring back that spicy cornbread magic whenever you want.
Reheating
Reheat waffles in a toaster or toaster oven for 3 to 5 minutes until crispy again. This method restores the original texture much better than microwaving, which can make them soft.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice added to it to mimic buttermilk’s tangy effect. It won’t be exactly the same, but it keeps the waffles tender and flavorful.
How spicy are these waffles?
The jalapeño adds a moderate heat level that’s noticeable but not overwhelming. If you want less spice, remove the seeds before chopping, or add more if you love extra kick.
Can I make these waffles gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best texture.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and melting quality. However, you could experiment with smoked cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist on the Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe.
Are these waffles good for dinner?
Absolutely! Their savory, spicy profile makes them perfect for dinner paired with hearty sides like fried chicken, greens, or a fresh salad. They’re so versatile you can enjoy them any time of day.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe is one of those dishes that turns ordinary meals into something truly special. The perfect balance of spice, cheese, and that beloved cornbread flavor makes it an instant favorite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your friends and family—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll make again and again.
Print
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 waffles)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are a flavorful twist on traditional cornbread, combining sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños in a crispy, golden waffle form. Perfect for a savory brunch or a comforting snack, they offer a delightful balance of heat and cheesy richness with a tender crumb and crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter
Add-ins
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs then add the buttermilk and melted butter. Mix well to blend all wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir gently until just combined, careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Add cheese and peppers: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeño pepper, and chives or green onions if using, ensuring even distribution without overworking the batter.
- Preheat waffle iron: Heat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or melted butter to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Cook waffles: Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve hot: Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and serve immediately. Optionally, top with sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot honey, or your favorite brunch accompaniments for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
- To make these waffles gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar if unavailable.
- Leftover waffles reheat well in a toaster or oven to regain crispiness.
