Crispy, cheesy, spicy southern-style goodness
These Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are everything you love about classic cornbread—crispy edges, tender centers, and warm, comforting flavor—turned into a fun and fiery waffle twist. Loaded with melty cheddar and fresh jalapeño heat, they’re perfect for brunch, chili night, or quick weeknight dinners when you want something bold and satisfying. With simple pantry ingredients and a fast cooking process, these savory waffles come together in minutes, making them ideal for busy cooks who still crave homemade flavor. Serve them with butter, honey, or on the side of hearty soups for a delicious kick!
⏱️ Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4–6 waffles (depending on waffle iron)
📝 Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- ½ cup canned corn kernels (optional but delicious)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Butter or oil spray for waffle iron
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Waffle maker
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Small cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Heat-safe spatula
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until combined—avoid overmixing.
- Fold in shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, and corn. The batter will be thick. 🌽
- Lightly grease the waffle iron, then add enough batter to cover the surface.
- Cook until golden, crispy, and deeply fragrant—usually 3–5 minutes depending on your waffle maker. 🔥
- Repeat with remaining batter and serve hot with butter, honey, maple syrup, or alongside a bowl of chili. 😋
💡 Pro Tips
- Make it extra spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or use pepper jack cheese.
- Crispier waffles: Let the cooked waffles rest directly on a wire rack—never stack them.
- Storage: Cool completely, then refrigerate for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat like new: Toast in the air fryer or toaster for perfect crispness.