Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey
A delightful twist on a classic Southern staple, these cornbread waffle bites combine the fluffy texture of cornbread with the smoky creaminess of Gouda and a drizzle of honey, making them perfect for breakfast or appetizers.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 200kcal
Ingredients
Waffle Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice) Adding a tangy flavor to the mix.
- 1 cup cornmeal The cornerstone of cornbread, offering that signature texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar For just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder Ensures fluffiness in each bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt To enhance the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder for a perfect texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Balances the cornmeal for structure.
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded Offers a creamy, smoky depth.
- 1/4 cup honey A sweet drizzle that ties everything together.
- to taste Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish (optional) Adds a touch of color and a hint of herbaceousness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your waffle iron as directed.
- In a bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
- Combine both mixtures and stir until just mixed to ensure a tender texture.
Cooking
- Lightly grease the waffle iron and add 1–2 tablespoons of batter per section.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Let the finished waffles cool slightly on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cooked waffle bites on a baking sheet and sprinkle generously with shredded Gouda.
- Bake for an additional 3–5 minutes until the cheese has melted.
Serving
- Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
To elevate the flavor, consider adding jalapeños for spice or cooked bacon bits for savoriness. For a less sweet option, reduce sugar or use honey as a sweetener. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.