Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles

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If you’re craving a breakfast with bold Southern flavor and a spicy twist, these Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are the answer. Imagine golden, crisp-edged waffles with cheesy pockets and a hit of jalapeño heat in every bite. It’s a dish that brings the cozy essence of cornbread into the playful form of waffles, making it perfect for weekend brunches or casual dinners.

These savory waffles pair incredibly well with fried chicken, smoky chili, or just a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast. Whether you’re looking to spice up your breakfast routine or impress your brunch guests with something unique, this cornbread waffle recipe brings both comfort and a kick.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe

These waffles aren’t just fun, they’re packed with character. The cheddar melts into gooey goodness while the jalapeño slices add a subtle burn that sneaks up in the best way. You can serve them savory or sweet, depending on what you’re in the mood for. They freeze well, reheat beautifully, and make an excellent base for toppings like avocado, pulled pork, or a poached egg.

What Kind of Cornmeal Works Best for Cornbread Waffles?

Use finely ground yellow cornmeal for a waffle with a delicate crunch and classic Southern flavor. If you prefer more texture, medium grind works too, but avoid coarse grind as it can make the batter gritty and uneven. Combining cornmeal with all-purpose flour creates the ideal light but hearty structure for waffles that hold up to toppings.

Ingredients for the Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles

The beauty of these waffles lies in their simplicity. You only need a handful of kitchen staples to whip up a batch, and the ingredients blend the classic comfort of cornbread with the punch of jalapeños and cheese.

Cornmeal – Brings that unmistakable cornbread flavor and slight crunch.

All-purpose flour – Balances the texture so your waffles aren’t too dense.

Baking powder – Helps the batter rise, giving the waffles a fluffier interior.

Salt – Enhances every other flavor.

Buttermilk – Adds tanginess and moisture; helps tenderize the crumb.

Eggs – Bind everything together and create structure.

Unsalted butter (melted) – Provides richness and adds a golden edge to the waffles.

Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts into savory bites throughout the waffle.

Jalapeños (fresh or jarred, finely chopped) – Give the waffles their signature heat.

Honey (optional) – Just a touch balances the heat and adds complexity.

How To Make the Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. If using honey, add it here for a touch of sweetness.

Step 3: Combine and Add Mix-ins

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños. Do not overmix – lumps are totally fine.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s directions. Lightly grease it with oil or butter. Pour the batter in, close the lid, and cook until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with toppings of your choice. These waffles are delicious on their own, but even better with a fried egg, crispy bacon, or a drizzle of maple syrup for contrast.

How to Serve and Store Spicy Cornbread Waffles

These spicy cheddar jalapeño waffles make an amazing base for brunch stacks. Top them with scrambled eggs, pulled pork, or even a chili spoon-over. If you’re serving them for dinner, they’re a fantastic stand-in for cornbread alongside soups or BBQ.

The recipe feeds about 4 people, yielding around 6 to 8 waffles depending on your waffle iron size. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for a month. Reheat in the toaster or oven to bring back the crisp texture.

What to Serve With Spicy Cornbread Waffles?

Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is the ultimate pairing for these waffles. The spicy-sweet combo never fails.

Chili

Ladle hearty chili over a warm waffle and let it soak in. It’s cozy, bold, and deliciously messy.

Honey Butter

Whip up a quick honey butter spread and let it melt into the crevices of a hot waffle for a sweet counterpoint.

Avocado & Salsa

Top your waffle with sliced avocado and spoonfuls of fresh salsa for a Tex-Mex inspired breakfast.

Pulled Pork

Use these waffles as a flavorful base for saucy pulled pork and coleslaw. It turns a side into the star.

Poached or Fried Egg

A runny egg on top is a brunch dream come true, especially when the yolk spills into all the cheesy pockets.

Maple Syrup

A drizzle of maple syrup over spicy, cheesy waffles brings a perfect balance of sweet and heat.

Want More Savory Breakfast Ideas?

If these spicy cornbread waffles hit the spot, here are more savory recipes you might love:

• Try our Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a hearty weeknight comfort.
• Love bold flavors? Don’t miss our Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas.
• Craving more Southern bites? Our Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers are addictive and perfect for game day.
• Need an easy brunch winner? Check out Breakfast Roll Ups filled with eggs and bacon.
• For something heartwarming, try this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make these waffles any time you’re craving comfort with a kick.

Have you tried them with different cheeses or added crumbled bacon? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear how you make these your own.

Explore more creative, savory dishes and feel-good meals on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired with every scroll!

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