If you love the comforting, slightly sweet goodness of cornbread paired with the smoky, creamy notes of smoked Gouda, then you’re in for a true delight with this Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe. These little gems come out golden and crisp on the outside with a tender crumb inside, perfectly balanced by the subtle sweetness of honey drizzled on top. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or brunch treat that everyone will rave about, showing just how versatile and simple cornbread can be when given a fun twist in the form of bite-sized waffles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry basics and a few special ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and color for these irresistible bites. The combination of cornmeal and flour forms a sturdy but tender base, while smoked Gouda adds depth and richness. Buttermilk tenderizes the crumb, and a touch of honey finishes things with a harmonious sweetness.
- Yellow cornmeal: Provides the classic cornbread texture and that beautiful golden hue.
- All-purpose flour: Helps balance the cornmeal for structure and softness.
- Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to complement the cheese and honey.
- Baking powder: Ensures a light, airy texture to the bites.
- Baking soda: Works with buttermilk to give a gentle rise and tenderness.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture for a tender crumb.
- Large egg: Binds ingredients and lends richness.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Contributes moisture and helps with browning.
- Shredded smoked Gouda cheese: Delivers smoky, creamy flavor in every bite.
- Honey: For drizzling on top to introduce a perfect touch of sweet contrast.
- Chopped chives or parsley (optional): Fresh herbs to brighten and garnish.
How to Make Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Waffle Maker
Start by heating your mini waffle maker or a standard waffle iron — having it nice and hot ensures your cornbread bites get that crispy, golden exterior we’re aiming for. Meanwhile, gather and prep the ingredients for easy mixing.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry base is essential for the perfect texture and rise.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and well incorporated. The buttermilk will add that delightful tang and keep your bites moist.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing so the bites stay tender and light.
Step 5: Fold in the Shredded Smoked Gouda
Add the shredded smoked Gouda cheese to the batter and fold it in evenly. This cheese is the star of the show, infusing every bite with its delicious smoky richness.
Step 6: Cook the Waffle Bites
Lightly grease your waffle iron with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of batter per bite onto the iron, close the lid, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the bites are golden and crisp.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Add Honey
Remove the cornbread waffle bites carefully and set them on a rack or plate to cool just a touch. Right before serving, drizzle with honey to balance the savory, smoky flavors with a sweet finish.
How to Serve Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped chives or fresh parsley brings a lovely pop of green and a mild onion flavor that lifts the dish. You can also experiment with a dash of smoked paprika or finely diced jalapeños for a bit of heat and color.
Side Dishes
These bites shine alongside a fresh, crisp salad or a bowl of tangy tomato soup for a comforting lunch. For brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to turn these little wonders into a full, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking them in a small tower, alternating with dollops of honey and herb-infused cream cheese for a showstopping appetizer. You could also serve them on a charcuterie board with an array of meats, nuts, and fruit for a perfect party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cornbread waffle bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They maintain their flavor beautifully and are great for a quick snack or meal addition.
Freezing
Freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month, making them a convenient option to prepare ahead of time for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain their crispiness. You can also use a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker crisp-up that keeps them just as delicious.
FAQs
Can I make these Cornbread Waffle Bites without smoked Gouda?
Absolutely! While smoked Gouda adds a fantastic flavor, you can substitute with mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just keep the cheese shredded for easy folding into the batter.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can, but it’s best to add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes first. This homemade buttermilk substitute will give you similar tanginess and help the bites rise well.
Are these waffle bites gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains all-purpose flour, which has gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can try substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.
Can I add spices or herbs to the batter?
Yes! Feel free to mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These additions can elevate the flavor and add a unique twist to your Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe.
How do I prevent the waffle bites from sticking to the waffle iron?
Make sure to lightly grease your waffle iron before each batch with butter or cooking spray. Also, avoid opening the iron too early during cooking to ensure the edges crisp up properly and release easily.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about combining the heartiness of cornbread, the smoky creaminess of Gouda, and the natural sweetness of honey into these bite-sized waffles. The Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and a little fancy, perfect for impressing friends or family without a ton of effort. Give it a try — I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds again and again!
Print
Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 mini bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey are a delightful savory-sweet appetizer or brunch treat. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they combine the rich flavor of smoked Gouda cheese with the subtle sweetness of honey drizzle, perfect for entertaining or a special snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Add-ins and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
- Honey, for drizzling
- Chopped chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Waffle Maker: Preheat a mini waffle maker or standard waffle iron to ensure it is hot and ready to cook the batter evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined and aerated.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and fully blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and tender.
- Fold in Cheese: Carefully fold in the shredded smoked Gouda cheese evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare Waffle Iron: Lightly grease the preheated waffle iron with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Waffle Bites: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of batter per waffle bite onto the waffle iron. Close and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per batch, until the bites are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cooked waffle bites and let them cool slightly on a wire rack or plate. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if desired just before serving.
Notes
- These waffle bites work perfectly as savory-sweet finger foods for appetizers or brunch.
- For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños into the batter.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a quick and tasty snack at parties.
