If you are on the hunt for a dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic cornbread with the irresistible crispiness of waffles, this Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Each bite offers a delightful crunch on the outside, with a tender, cheesy interior that’s packed with the rich flavor of sharp cheddar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a savory snack, these waffles bring a playful twist to familiar ingredients, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of texture, taste, and visual appeal that makes these waffles stand out.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure and slight chewiness for the waffle batter.
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal: Adds signature cornbread graininess and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the waffles rise and become airy without heaviness.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Works with buttermilk to provide lift and tenderness.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness from the cornmeal.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings gooey, savory pockets of sharpness throughout the waffles.
- 3 large eggs: Acts as a binder while contributing to richness.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and tender crumb texture, plus interacts with baking soda for rise.
- 1 cup club soda: Keeps the batter light and airy for crispy, delicate waffles.
- â…“ cup canola oil: Provides moisture and helps achieve a golden crisp exterior.
How to Make Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This not only ensures even distribution of the leavening agents but also helps create a light, airy texture. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese so that every waffle ends up bursting with cheesy goodness in every bite.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, club soda, and canola oil. This mix keeps the batter moist and helps produce waffles that are crisp on the outside and tender inside.
Step 3: Combine and Stir Gently
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the waffles light—not heavy or dense.
Step 4: Cook the Waffles
Spray your preheated waffle iron generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon the batter onto the iron and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the waffles are crisp and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter for all 8 servings.
Step 5: Keep Warm Until Serving
Transfer cooked waffles onto a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven at 200°F, uncovered. This will ensure they remain crispy and fresh while you finish cooking the rest.
How to Serve Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
These waffles are delicious on their own, but topping them adds another layer of flavor and presentation flair. Try dollops of sour cream, slices of green onion, or a sprinkle of extra cheddar. A drizzle of honey or hot sauce also beautifully balances their savory nature.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe with classic Southern sides like smoky bacon, buttery scrambled eggs, or a fresh tomato salad for a meal that’s well-rounded and satisfying at any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the waffles and layer with crisp fried chicken for an irresistible twist on chicken and waffles. Alternatively, use them as a base for hearty chili or creamy soups to soak up every last bit. These ideas show how versatile this recipe truly is.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra waffles, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacks or meals.
Freezing
Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe leftovers freeze beautifully. Place cooled waffles in zip-top freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. This makes for effortless breakfasts or sides whenever you want.
Reheating
To bring frozen or refrigerated waffles back to life, reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven. This helps restore their crisp crust without making them soggy, unlike microwave reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives this recipe its signature flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for unique twists.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds both flavor and acidity that activates the baking soda for fluffier waffles. However, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to mix and cook the batter fresh for optimal rise and texture, but you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and combine them with wet ingredients just before cooking.
How do I get waffles crispy instead of soggy?
Using club soda in the batter and cooking on a preheated waffle iron contributes to crispiness. Keeping finished waffles warm in a low oven also prevents sogginess.
What if I don’t have a waffle iron?
This batter can be adapted to make cornbread muffins or pancakes, but the unique crispiness is best achieved with a waffle iron.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe, you’ll understand why it becomes an instant favorite in any household. The blend of cheesy, crispy, and tender textures makes it a standout dish for breakfast or any casual meal. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a batch to share with loved ones—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheddar Cornbread Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes per waffle batch, total approx. 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy and crispy Cheddar Cornbread Waffles made with a perfect blend of cornmeal, cheddar cheese, and buttermilk. These waffles combine the savory flavors of cornbread with the light texture of a waffle, making them an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or a side dish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup club soda
- â…“ cup canola oil
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Mix: Sift together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl to evenly combine and aerate the mixture. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese to distribute it throughout the dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the three large eggs. Add the buttermilk, club soda, and canola oil, mixing gently to blend these wet ingredients well.
- Mix the Batter: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Do not overmix to keep the waffles light and tender.
- Preheat and Prepare Waffle Iron: Spray the waffle iron with cooking spray thoroughly to prevent sticking. Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Cook Waffles: Spoon the batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading slightly if needed. Cook each waffle for 3-5 minutes or until they turn crisp and golden brown and are fully cooked inside.
- Keep Warm: Transfer cooked waffles to a baking sheet and keep them warm and crisp in an oven set to 200°F, uncovered, until all waffles are cooked and ready to serve.
- Storage and Reheating: Freeze any leftover waffles in zip-top freezer bags. Reheat the frozen waffles in an oven or toaster oven until heated through and crisp before serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
- Using club soda adds a light and airy texture to the waffles.
- Cook waffles until crisp for the best texture.
- Leftover waffles freeze well and can be reheated easily in an oven or toaster oven.
- For a more intense cheddar flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
