These Cornbread Waffle Bites are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, combining the crispy texture of waffles with the sweet-and-savory flavors of smoked Gouda cheese and honey. Perfectly bite-sized, these golden beauties are ideal for brunch, appetizers, or even as a fun side dish. The smoky richness of the Gouda pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey, while the cornmeal adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something unique, these waffle bites are sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Waffle Bites:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
- 2 large eggs , lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter , plus more for brushing
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
For Serving:
- Honey , for drizzling
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- Butter pats (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray or a brush of melted butter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—small lumps are okay.
- Fold in the shredded smoked Gouda cheese until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cook the Waffle Bites
- Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of batter onto the center of each section of the waffle iron (depending on its size). Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes , or until the waffle bites are golden brown and crisp.
- Transfer the cooked waffle bites to a wire rack to keep them crisp while you finish cooking the remaining batter. Brush the waffle iron with melted butter between batches if needed.
Step 4: Serve with Style
- Arrange the warm waffle bites on a serving platter.
- Drizzle generously with honey and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch.
- Serve with additional honey on the side for dipping or extra drizzling. Add butter pats if desired for an extra indulgent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy and Cheesy: The waffle iron creates a perfectly crisp exterior while the smoked Gouda adds a gooey, melty center.
- Sweet-Savory Combo: The honey balances the smoky, savory flavors of the cheese and cornmeal.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, brunch item, or side dish—they’re perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fine Cornmeal: Fine cornmeal ensures a smoother batter and better texture than coarse cornmeal.
- Don’t Overfill the Waffle Iron: Use small portions of batter to create bite-sized waffles that are easy to handle.
- Keep Them Warm: Place cooked waffle bites on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to stay warm and crisp while finishing the batch.
Ways to Enjoy Your Cornbread Waffle Bites:
- Brunch Star: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a hearty brunch spread.
- Appetizer Delight: Pair with a charcuterie board or serve as finger food at parties.
- Holiday Side Dish: Replace traditional cornbread with these waffle bites for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
- Kid-Friendly Snack: Cut them into smaller pieces and let kids dip them in honey or maple syrup.
These Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey are a celebration of textures and flavors, offering a little something for everyone. With their crispy edges, cheesy centers, and sweet drizzle of honey, they’re as irresistible as they are versatile. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or simply enjoying them as a snack, these waffle bites are sure to become a new favorite. So fire up your waffle iron, melt that cheese, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of sweet-and-savory goodness! 🌽
