There’s something about this dish that just works—here’s why: These Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey have become a beloved staple in our home. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up after a long day, but their unique blend of savory and sweet satisfies even the pickiest eaters at my table. My kids, Mateo and Camila, love them as a snack, while I find them fabulous for brunch or cozy family dinners. The fluffy, cheesy goodness combined with a luscious drizzle of honey makes each bite utterly irresistible. Trust me, you’ll want to make these a regular feature in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup milk (or buttermilk)
1 large egg
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
1/4 cup honey
Now, I’ve played around with this recipe a bit, and sometimes I substitute the milk with buttermilk for an extra tangy twist. Additionally, if I’m low on smoked Gouda, I’ve used sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for that little kick—turns out delightful every time! If you’d like a herby flavor, try mixing in some chopped chives or cilantro. This flexibility makes it easy to adjust based on what you have on hand.
Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey
Equipment
- Waffle Iron
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
Cornbread Batter
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
Toppings
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, egg, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded smoked Gouda until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the waffle iron, using about 1/4 cup for each bite.
- Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm, drizzled with honey on top.
Notes
How to Make Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey
Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re like me and tend to get distracted, you might want to set a timer!
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, milk, egg, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The kids love to help here; they think it’s fun to see the batter come together!
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Fold in the shredded smoked Gouda until it’s evenly distributed. This step is where the magic starts—who can resist that melty cheese?
Step 4: Pour the Batter
Pour the batter into your waffle iron, using about 1/4 cup for each bite. Depending on your waffle maker, you might want to adjust slightly, but this measurement generally works well.
Step 5: Cook and Monitor
Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through. I usually take a peek halfway through to make sure they’re not getting overly crispy.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve them warm, drizzled with honey on top. This step is my favorite—watching the honey cascade over those golden bites makes everyone’s mouth water!
Serving & Garnish
I typically serve these Cornbread Waffle Bites for brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. Mateo absolutely adores them with a side of maple syrup, while Camila loves them just with honey! Occasionally, we’ll host weekend brunches with friends, and these make for a perfect snack to nibble on while catching up. Their cute, bite-sized shape makes them super easy for little hands to grab, which I appreciate when keeping a close eye on my energetic kiddos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough waffles. Make sure to mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overfill the waffle iron; less is more here. You can always make more if needed! And lastly, keep a close watch while cooking; no one likes burnt bites!
Storage & Reheating
These bites store well in the fridge for up to a week. Just place them in an airtight container. For reheating, you can pop them in the toaster or microwave for a minute or two. If you’re planning to freeze them, let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated from frozen in the toaster or in the oven.
A Little Note from Me
Last week, we had a little impromptu family movie night, and I whipped up a batch of these Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey. Mateo was convinced they were perfect for his superhero movie marathon, while Camila declared they were the best movie snack ever! It warmed my heart seeing their faces light up with every delicious bite. Moments like these remind me that cooking is more than just food; it’s about bringing joy to our family gatherings.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked Gouda gives it a beautifully rich flavor, you can easily swap in your favorite cheese like cheddar or pepper jack.
What is a great dipping sauce for Cornbread Waffle Bites?
I recommend trying a spicy aioli or ranch dressing! They provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
Can I make Savory Cornbread Waffles with this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the sugar and add your favorite herbs or spices for an incredible savory variation.
How do I know when the waffle bites are done?
Look for a golden brown color and a firm texture. A little crispiness on the outside is perfect!
Can I add vegetables to the batter?
Definitely! Try adding finely chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even corn kernels for a fun twist.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to see your take! Leave a comment below or tag @YummyCrafter on Pinterest. Let’s bake joy together!
