Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles Recipe – Spicy, Cheesy Southern-Style Waffles for Brunch or Dinner
These Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are a savory twist on a Southern classic—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with bold flavor. Made with cornmeal, sharp cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapeños, they’re perfect for brunch, breakfast-for-dinner, or as a base for chili or fried chicken. Serve them with sour cream, hot honey, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-and-spicy kick. Quick to whip up and endlessly customizable, these waffles are a must-try for anyone who loves heat and comfort food.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Grater
- Waffle iron (cast iron preferred)
- Nonstick spray or oil
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, diced (seeded for mild heat)
- Optional: ½ cup corn kernels, ¼ cup chopped scallions or cilantro
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Combine: Pour wet mixture into dry and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—lumps are okay.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in cheddar, jalapeños, and any optional ingredients.
- Preheat & Grease Waffle Iron: Heat waffle iron and grease well with oil or nonstick spray.
- Cook Waffles: Pour batter into waffle iron (about ½–¾ cup per waffle). Cook until golden and crisp, 4–6 minutes.
- Cool Slightly: Let waffles rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to set texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor.
- For extra spice, add cayenne or hot sauce to the batter.
- Vegan? Use plant-based milk, cheese, and egg substitutes.
- Gluten-free? Use a certified GF flour blend and cornmeal.
- Reheat in toaster or oven—not microwave—for best texture.
- Serve with fried chicken, chili, eggs, or avocado for a full meal.