Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe

I stumbled upon this recipe by accident, and it has completely changed my brunch game. These savory waffles are perfectly crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with melted cheddar and a kick of jalapeño.

They are an absolute showstopper and so versatile. Once you try this, you might also want to explore our guide to the Creamy Chicken Leek and Thyme Pie Recipe for another amazing meal.

This cornbread waffle recipe, however, is a new favorite I just had to share.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making these waffles a few times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take them from great to absolutely unforgettable.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: I can’t say this enough! A lumpy batter leads to a tender waffle. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, chewy texture instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Letting the eggs and buttermilk come to room temperature helps them incorporate more easily into the batter, yielding a more uniform texture.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has additives to prevent caking that can make it melt poorly. Grating a block of sharp cheddar yourself will give you that glorious, gooey cheese pull.
• Keep Waffles Warm: To serve everyone at once, place a wire rack on a baking sheet and put it in an oven preheated to 200°F (95°C). Place cooked waffles on the rack to keep them warm and crispy while you finish the batch.

Variations to try

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.

• Spice It Up or Down: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients or use fresh, minced habanero instead of jalapeños. For a milder version, substitute diced green chiles or roasted red peppers.
• Cheese Swaps: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, don’t be afraid to try other cheeses. Pepper Jack will add an extra kick, while a smoked gouda can lend a deep, smoky flavor.
• Add More Savory Goodness: Consider adding a ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage to the batter for a heartier waffle. You can also add fresh herbs like chives or cilantro. These variations make for excellent dinner recipes when you want something unique.
• Dairy-Free Option: You can substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Use a plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Equipment You Need

You don’t need a lot of fancy tools for this recipe, just a few kitchen basics.

• Waffle Iron: The essential tool for turning batter into crispy, golden waffles.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one large and one medium bowl for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk: For evenly combining ingredients and ensuring a light batter.
• Spatula: Perfect for gently folding the batter and scraping every last bit from the bowl.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring all your ingredients.

How to Serve Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles

These waffles are a blank canvas for so many delicious toppings and pairings.

• Top with a dollop of sour cream or crema, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a few extra jalapeño slices.
• Serve with a sunny-side-up egg on top and a side of crispy bacon for a fantastic brunch.
• Turn them into a Southern classic by pairing them with fried chicken and a drizzle of hot honey.
• Use them as a base for a hearty bowl of chili, replacing traditional cornbread.
• For a sweet and savory dessert, you could even serve a smaller piece alongside our Peach Tarte Tatin Recipe to surprise your guests.

Calories Count

Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients and waffle size.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per waffle
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 17g
• Sodium: 750mg

How to Store

Don’t let any leftovers go to waste! These waffles store wonderfully.

Store cooled waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, place cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheat refrigerated or frozen waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these savory waffles. Here are just a few:

• Incredibly Versatile: They are perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The serving possibilities are endless!
• Perfect Texture Combo: You get the amazing crispy edges from the waffle iron with the tender, fluffy interior of classic cornbread.
• Bold and Savory Flavor: The sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeños create a delicious, memorable flavor that’s a welcome change from sweet waffles.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily adjust the spice level, change the cheese, or add other mix-ins to suit your taste.

More Recipe Details

The key to this recipe’s success is the balance of flavors and textures. The tangy buttermilk tenderizes the cornmeal, while the combination of baking powder and baking soda gives it a beautiful lift.

Don’t be tempted to use a pre-made cornbread mix, as making the batter from scratch gives you full control over the flavor and quality.

The subtle sweetness from the honey is not overpowering but works to enhance the savory notes and tame the jalapeño’s heat just enough. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and delivers impressive results every time.

Ben Carraoli

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe

I stumbled upon this recipe by accident, and it has completely changed my brunch game. These savory waffles are perfectly crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with melted cheddar and a kick of jalapeño.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Dinner

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup cornmeal – This is the heart of the recipe giving the waffles their classic cornbread flavor and texture. Yellow or white cornmeal both work great.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Flour provides structure ensuring your waffles hold together and have a pleasant, soft interior.
• 2 tsp baking powder – This leavening agent helps the waffles rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1 tsp baking soda – Works with the buttermilk to give the waffles an extra lift.
• 1 tsp salt – Balances the flavors and brings out the savory notes of the cheese and cornmeal.
• 1 cup buttermilk – The acidity in buttermilk creates an incredibly tender and moist crumb. It’s a non-negotiable for the best texture.
• 1/4 cup melted butter – Adds richness flavor, and helps create those deliciously crisp edges.
• 2 large eggs – These act as a binder holding everything together while contributing to the richness.
• 1 tbsp honey – A touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy jalapeños. It’s optional but highly recommended.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Grating your own cheese from a block is best as it melts better and doesn’t contain anti-caking agents. The sharper, the better for a bold flavor.
• 1/3 cup chopped pickled jalapeños – Pickled jalapeños add a tangy heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Cooking spray – Essential for preventing the waffles from sticking to your iron.

Method

 

1. First things first, get your waffle iron hot and ready. Turn it on to preheat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Just before you add the batter, give it a generous coat of cooking spray to ensure your waffles release easily.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent, fluffy texture in every waffle.
3. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, combine the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and honey. Whisk them together until everything is smooth and well-incorporated. This step ensures all the enriching, moistening ingredients are blended before they meet the flour mixture.
4. Now, pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold them together until just combined. It is very important not to overmix here; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and actually desirable.
5. Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and the chopped pickled jalapeños. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter, but again, be careful not to overwork it. This is the step where the batter truly comes to life with flavor.
6. Pour about ½ to ⅔ cup of batter onto your preheated and greased waffle iron, depending on its size. Close the lid and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the waffle is golden brown and crispy. The steam will reduce significantly when it’s ready.
7. Carefully remove the finished waffle from the iron and serve it immediately while it’s hot and fresh. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, making sure to keep the finished waffles warm in a low oven if you’re making a large batch.