Description
These Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles combine the classic comforting flavor of cornbread with a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños and the rich sharpness of cheddar cheese. Perfect for brunch or a savory snack, these waffles are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold flavors. Serve them hot with toppings like sliced jalapeños, hot honey, or your favorite brunch sides for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the large eggs, then add the buttermilk and melted butter, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth wet mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the waffles tender.
- Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar, finely chopped jalapeño, and the optional chopped chives or green onions, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Preheat and Grease Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Waffles: Pour batter into the hot waffle iron, spreading it out evenly. Cook for 4–5 minutes or until the waffles turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and serve hot. Enhance with toppings like sliced jalapeños, hot honey, or your favorite brunch accompaniments for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra spicy waffles, include the seeds when chopping the jalapeño pepper.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
- Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor contrast; milder cheeses won’t provide the same depth.
- Leftover waffles can be reheated in a toaster or oven for crispy texture.
