Description
Cornbread Waffle Bites offer a delightful Southern twist on classic cornbread by baking the batter in a waffle iron, resulting in crispy, golden bites with a tender crumb. These bite-sized treats can be customized with jalapeños or herbs for added flavor and are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional)
Optional Add-ins
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh herbs (e.g., chives, parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and melted butter. Combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just mixed. If desired, fold in honey or sugar for added sweetness, and add finely chopped jalapeños and herbs for flavor.
- Preheat the waffle iron: Heat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring it is well-greased or sprayed with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the waffle bites: Spoon the batter into the waffle iron, filling each section about three-quarters full. Close the iron and cook for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the waffle bites are golden brown and cooked through. The exact timing will depend on your waffle iron model.
- Cool completely: Remove the waffle bites carefully and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain crispiness before storing.
- Store the waffle bites: Place the cooled waffle bites in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat for serving: To reheat, warm them in a toaster or toaster oven until crispy and heated through. Alternatively, heat them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- Freeze for longer storage: For freezing, arrange the cooled waffle bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat from frozen: Bake frozen waffle bites directly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until fully heated through.
Notes
- For spicier bites, increase the amount of jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use buttermilk instead of milk for a tangier flavor and softer texture.
- Ensure waffle bites are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.
- These waffle bites can be served with butter, honey, or your favorite dipping sauces.
- Customize with different herbs like thyme or rosemary based on preference.
