Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles are a fun twist on classic cornbread, combining the crispiness of waffles with the bold flavors of cheddar cheese and jalapeños. These waffles are golden brown, slightly crunchy on the outside, and wonderfully moist inside, with little pockets of melty cheese and bursts of spicy jalapeño flavor.
I love making these waffles when I want something a bit different for breakfast or brunch that still feels comforting and flavorful. The spicy kick from the jalapeños wakes up your taste buds, while the cheddar adds a rich, cheesy comfort. I usually keep the heat just right by adjusting the amount of jalapeño, so it’s perfectly balanced—not too mild, not too fiery.
One of my favorite ways to serve these waffles is with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey to add a touch of coolness or sweetness that pairs so well with the spicy and cheesy notes. They also make a fantastic side for chili or BBQ dinners. Whenever I bring these to a potluck or family gathering, they always disappear first, which tells me I’m not the only one who finds them irresistible!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornmeal: The base of these waffles, cornmeal gives them their classic texture and flavor. You can use fine or medium grind. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cornmeal and swap flour for a gluten-free blend.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor and melts well. If you want a milder taste, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For extra depth, smoked cheddar offers a smoky twist.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring the perfect kick. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For no spice, swap with diced mild green bell peppers or roasted poblano peppers for a smoky flavor.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk makes the waffles moist and tender with a slight tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Waffles with Melty Cheese Inside?
To achieve perfectly crispy cornbread waffles with pockets of melty cheese, follow these tips:
- Preheat your waffle iron well. This helps create a crisp exterior while cooking the inside fully.
- Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined. Overmixing can make waffles dense instead of tender.
- Grease the waffle iron lightly with oil or butter to prevent sticking without making the waffle soggy.
- When adding cheese, fold it gently into the batter so it spreads evenly without clumping.
- Cook the waffles until they are deep golden brown to get that nice crunchy crust.
- Remove waffles carefully and serve immediately to enjoy melty cheese and fresh jalapeño flavors at their best.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Waffle iron – essential for creating those crispy, golden waffles with perfect pockets for cheese and jalapeños.
- Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients and one for wet, makes combining the batter easier and less messy.
- Whisk – helps mix wet ingredients smoothly and breaks up lumps in the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, which makes a big difference in waffles.
- Spatula – handy for folding in cheese and jalapeños gently without crushing them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a creamier waffle with a little extra spice.
- Add cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon into the batter for a heartier, savory touch.
- Mix in corn kernels or diced bell peppers for a bit of sweetness and extra texture.
- Use smoked paprika or cumin instead of cayenne for a warm, smoky flavor instead of the fiery heat.
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Flavor and Toppings:
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (plus extra slices for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
- Cooking spray or extra butter for waffle iron
- Crispy cooked bacon pieces (optional for topping)
- Sour cream or crema for serving (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your waffle iron. So, expect around 30 minutes total from start to finish, perfect for a tasty breakfast or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Waffle Iron:
Preheat the waffle iron following your machine’s instructions. Lightly brush or spray it with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until everything is well combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk and melted butter, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula until just combined. Try not to overmix—the batter should be a bit lumpy for tender waffles.
5. Add Cheese and Jalapeños:
Fold in the shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, cilantro (if using), and cayenne or chili powder for extra spice. Mix gently so the cheese and jalapeños spread evenly.
6. Cook the Waffles:
Spoon batter onto your hot waffle iron, spreading it out slightly but not too thin. Close the lid and cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until waffles are golden brown and crisp.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully remove waffles and place on a plate. Top with extra cheddar cheese, jalapeño slices, and crispy bacon pieces if you like. Garnish with extra cilantro for freshness.
8. Enjoy Warm:
Serve your spicy cheddar jalapeño cornbread waffles warm, ideally with a dollop of sour cream or crema to add a cool contrast to the spicy heat.
Can I Use Frozen Jalapeños for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen jalapeños! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before folding them into the batter to avoid soggy waffles.
How Should I Store Leftover Waffles?
Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or oven to keep their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice in place of buttermilk. Choose a vegan cheddar-style cheese or omit the cheese for a lighter version.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To reduce heat, remove the seeds and membranes from jalapeños before chopping. For more spice, add extra jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper or chili powder to taste.
