Golden, crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these Cornbread Waffles are everything you didn’t know you were craving. Whether you’re whipping them up for a savory brunch or a creative twist on dinner, this recipe delivers a rich, buttery cornbread flavor with that iconic waffle texture we all love.
Topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, and perhaps a drizzle of honey or hot sauce, these waffles can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. They’re quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and the perfect way to use pantry staples in a fun new way.
Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Waffle
Cornbread Waffles combine the hearty, homey taste of cornbread with the crispy edges and soft centers of waffles. They’re naturally gluten-free (if made with cornmeal only), adaptable for sweet or savory toppings, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Plus, they reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or weekend brunch spreads.
What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?
The best cornmeal for these waffles is medium-grind yellow cornmeal. It provides just the right amount of texture without being too gritty. Fine cornmeal can be used for a smoother result, but avoid coarse grind as it can make the waffle too crunchy and uneven. If you want a fluffier texture, try mixing your cornmeal with all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio.
Ingredients for the Cornbread Waffle
Each ingredient in this Cornbread Waffle recipe serves a distinct purpose, ensuring you get the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite.
- Yellow Cornmeal: The heart of the waffle, giving it that classic cornbread flavor and golden color.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps soften the waffle’s texture and adds structure to hold its shape.
- Baking Powder: Provides lift and fluffiness, ensuring your waffles are light and airy.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the natural corn flavor.
- Sugar: Just a touch to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together and create a tender crumb.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps activate the baking powder, contributing to a moist texture.
- Melted Butter: Brings rich flavor and helps crisp up the exterior.


How To Make the Cornbread Waffle
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled so it doesn’t cook the eggs.
Step 3: Combine and Stir
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Preheat and Grease the Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with butter or oil spray to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Pour enough batter into the center of the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crispy. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings—savory or sweet!
Serving and Storing Cornbread Waffle
These Cornbread Waffles are best served hot and crispy right out of the waffle maker. They make a perfect meal for 4 people, with each person enjoying 1 to 2 hearty waffles depending on portion size. If you’re planning ahead, you can easily freeze leftover waffles by letting them cool completely, then stacking them with parchment paper in between and storing in a zip-top bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best texture.
What to Serve With Cornbread Waffle?
Fried or Grilled Chicken
A southern-style favorite, pairing fried chicken with cornbread waffles creates an irresistible savory brunch or dinner.
Chili
Top your waffle with a hearty scoop of chili for a comforting, spoon-and-fork kind of meal.
Scrambled or Poached Eggs
Add a protein boost and turn this dish into a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Avocado and Hot Sauce
A fresh and spicy combo that balances the richness of the waffle.
Bacon and Maple Syrup
For a salty-sweet explosion of flavor, this classic combo never disappoints.
Pulled Pork
Perfect for dinner, topping the waffle with smoky pulled pork makes a full meal.
Sauteed Greens
Kale, spinach, or collards add a nutritious and earthy complement to the cornbread base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cornbread waffles ahead of time?
Yes! Make a batch, let them cool, then freeze with parchment paper between each waffle. Toast or bake to reheat and restore crispiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, or use only cornmeal for a denser texture.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I add cheese or jalapeños to the batter?
Definitely! Sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or chopped jalapeños add a delicious kick and work great with the base recipe.
Do I need a Belgian waffle maker or will any kind do?
Either works! Belgian waffle makers create thicker, fluffier waffles with deep pockets, but a standard waffle iron works just as well.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for savory toppings or a sweet twist? Did you add jalapeños or cheese?
I love seeing your creations and swaps. Drop your questions too—let’s help each other perfect this delicious waffle!
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Conclusion
Cornbread Waffles are a fun and tasty twist on traditional breakfast or brunch options. Whether you top them with eggs, chili, or maple syrup, they offer comfort, crunch, and that unmistakable cornbread charm. Easy to customize and perfect for any time of day, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their waffle game.

Cornbread Waffle
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an easy dinner idea, or a unique twist on comfort food, these Cornbread Waffles check every box. With their golden crisp exterior and fluffy cornbread center, they’re perfect for both sweet and savory toppings. This easy recipe is a game-changer for breakfast ideas, healthy snack inspiration, and dinner ideas that break from the ordinary.
Ingredients
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
2 large eggs
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted (cooled) butter.
3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Preheat and lightly grease your waffle iron.
5. Pour batter into the center and cook until golden and crispy, following your waffle maker’s instructions.
6. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Notes
Use medium-grind cornmeal for best texture.
Make it spicy by adding jalapeños to the batter.
Reheat leftovers in a toaster to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: cornbread waffle, easy recipe, quick breakfast, dinner ideas, breakfast ideas



