If you have a craving for something sweet, savory, and irresistibly comforting, you are going to love this Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe. These little golden bites combine the tender crumb of classic cornbread with the crispness of waffles, elevated by a luscious drizzle of warm honey butter syrup. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack, they bring together simple ingredients in a way that feels indulgent yet familiar. The melody of cheddar cheese and smoky bacon optional add-ins only deepen the flavor, making these bites a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor balance. From the tangy buttermilk to the sweet honey, every component is essential to bring these waffle bites to life.
- 1 cup cornbread mix: The hearty base that gives the waffles their cornbread charm and a slightly sweet corn flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a gentle tang that keeps the waffles tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and helps the batter rise for a fluffy finish.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into pockets of savory richness in every bite.
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional): Brings a smoky, salty punch that contrasts wonderfully with sweetness.
- 1/4 cup honey: Key to the honey butter syrup, bringing natural sweetness and floral notes.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates the luxurious base for the honey butter syrup and enhances the waffle bites’ richness.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional): Adds a layer of deep, caramel-like sweetness to the syrup.
- Pinch of salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly, especially in the syrup.
How to Make Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Maker
Start by heating up your waffle maker based on the instructions it came with. Getting it nice and hot ensures your cornbread waffle bites cook evenly and turn beautifully golden brown with a satisfying crisp on the outside.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, buttermilk, and egg. Stir gently until everything is just blended together. The batter should be smooth with no dry patches, giving you that perfect base for fluffy yet tender bites.
Step 3: Fold In Optional Savory Toppings
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, gently fold shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon into the batter now. These additions create pockets of melty cheese and bursts of smoky flavor that transform the simple bites into something unforgettable.
Step 4: Cook the Waffle Bites
Lightly grease your waffle maker to prevent sticking, then pour the batter onto the hot surface. Close the lid and let the batter cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bites turn golden and crisp. The result should be waffles that are crunchy outside while delightfully moist inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Honey Butter Syrup
While your waffle bites cook, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan set to medium heat. Once melted, stir in the honey, optional maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together and heat until the syrup is warm and fully combined, ready to drizzle.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Remove your cornbread waffle bites carefully and transfer them to a serving plate. Immediately drizzle them generously with the warm honey butter syrup. The syrup’s glossy shine and sweet warmth take these bites to the next level of comfort food greatness.
How to Serve Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can really elevate your presentation and flavor profile. Try a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or crumbled bacon on top for color and texture. Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley also brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
These waffle bites are wonderfully versatile alongside many dishes. Serve them with scrambled eggs and sautéed greens for a hearty breakfast. Alternatively, pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a satisfying brunch or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, serve the Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe on a wooden board with small bowls of extra syrup, honey, and savory toppings for guests to customize. You can even skewer a few bites with a toothpick for convenient finger food that is sure to disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the bites moist yet still easy to reheat and enjoy again without losing their charm.
Freezing
For longer storage, place cooled waffle bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen waffle bites can be kept up to 2 months and make for a quick, tasty treat whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the waffle bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This method restores their crispy exterior and warms them through perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep them from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I make the Cornbread Waffle Bites without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s tang and acidity.
Is it necessary to add cheddar cheese and bacon?
No, the cheddar cheese and bacon are optional but highly recommended for added flavor complexity. They bring a savory bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the honey butter syrup.
Can I use regular waffle batter instead of cornbread mix?
This recipe specifically shines because of the cornbread mix’s unique texture and flavor. Using regular waffle batter will change the taste and won’t give you the same satisfying cornbread crumb.
How sweet is the honey butter syrup?
The syrup is pleasantly sweet but balanced by a touch of salt and the richness of butter. If you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the honey or omit the maple syrup altogether.
Can I prepare the honey butter syrup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the syrup in advance and gently warm it before serving. Just give it a quick stir if it separates, and it’s ready to drizzle over your warm waffle bites.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about sinking your teeth into warm, crisp Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe that feels like a special treat yet is so easy to make. Whether you add bacon and cheese or keep it simple and sweet, these bites are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy they bring to your table!
Print
Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these crispy and golden Cornbread Waffle Bites, perfectly complemented by a luscious honey butter syrup. Made with simple ingredients like cornbread mix, buttermilk, and eggs, and optionally enhanced with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, these bite-sized waffles make a perfect savory-sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Waffle Bites
- 1 cup cornbread mix
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Honey Butter Syrup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the waffle maker: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Mix the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, buttermilk, and egg. Stir well until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add optional ingredients: If desired, gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon to add savory flavor and texture to the batter.
- Cook the waffle bites: Lightly grease the preheated waffle maker. Pour the batter onto the waffle iron, spreading evenly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the waffle bites turn golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare the honey butter syrup: While the waffles cook, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add honey, maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and warmed through.
- Serve: Remove the cornbread waffle bites from the waffle maker once cooked. Drizzle generously with the warm honey butter syrup.
- Enjoy immediately: Serve hot for the best taste and texture, enjoying the sweet and savory combination in every bite.
Notes
- For crispy waffle bites, avoid opening the waffle maker too early during cooking.
- Cheddar cheese and bacon are optional, but they add a delicious savory contrast to the sweet syrup.
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if you don’t have buttermilk.
- Use maple syrup in the honey butter syrup for an added depth of flavor, or omit for a simpler syrup.
- Waffle bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
