Howdy, y’all! Today, we’re mixing up the traditional cornbread game by turning it into crispy, golden waffles. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, this waffle cornbread recipe is about to become your new favorite. Let’s get waffling!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cornmeal and flour gives these waffles the perfect balance of texture—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
- Using buttermilk adds a tangy depth that complements the sweetness of the corn, making every bite irresistible.
- The waffle iron not only cooks the cornbread evenly but also creates those coveted crispy edges and pockets perfect for holding syrup or butter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Equipment Needed
- Waffle iron
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Heat Up Your Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat. This ensures your waffle cornbread cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust. If your waffle iron has adjustable temperature settings, aim for 375°F. A hot waffle iron is key to avoiding soggy waffles.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This not only combines the ingredients but also aerates the mixture, leading to lighter waffles. Tip: For extra fluffy waffles, sift the dry ingredients together.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined. The buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to create lift, so don’t skip it! Tip: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tbsp of vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to tough waffles. The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk.
Cook to Golden Perfection
Pour enough batter onto the preheated waffle iron to cover the grid, close the lid, and cook until the waffle is golden brown and crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Avoid opening the waffle iron too early to prevent splitting. Tip: Keep cooked waffles warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their waffle cornbread game, consider these advanced tips. First, let the batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the cornmeal to hydrate, resulting in a more tender waffle. Second, brush the waffle iron with melted butter between batches for extra crispiness and flavor. Lastly, experiment with adding mix-ins like shredded cheese, jalapeños, or corn kernels for a personalized twist. Remember, the key to perfect waffles is patience and not skimping on the preheating time.
Recipe Variations
- Sweet Version: Increase the sugar to 1/4 cup and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a dessert-like waffle. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.
- Savory Herb: Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with soups and stews.
- Cheesy Jalapeño: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of diced jalapeños for a spicy, cheesy version that’s perfect for brunch.
- Bacon Cornbread Waffles: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the batter for a smoky, savory flavor that’s irresistible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these waffles gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for the best results. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I store leftover waffle cornbread? Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best results.
Can I use a pancake mix instead of making the batter from scratch? While you can use a pancake mix as a base, the unique texture and flavor of cornbread waffles come from the cornmeal and buttermilk. For the authentic experience, we recommend sticking to the recipe.
Summary
This waffle cornbread recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, combining the best of both worlds into a crispy, golden waffle. Perfect for any meal, it’s versatile, easy to make, and downright delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!