If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic cornbread, let me introduce you to the joy of Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe. These bite-sized morsels pack all the sweet and savory flavors you love, with the perfect crispy exterior and tender crumb inside. Drizzled with a luscious honey butter syrup, they make a breakfast treat or snack that’s incredibly easy to whip up but impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weekend brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, these waffle bites bring warmth and comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient contributes to the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tang of buttermilk to the optional cheddar and bacon that add savory depth, every element plays a role in making these waffle bites memorable.
- Cornbread mix: The foundation providing sweet corn flavor and tender crumb texture.
- Buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and keeps the waffle bites moist and fluffy.
- Large egg: Binds the batter and gives structure.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Brings a savory richness and subtle sharpness.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon (optional): Infuses smoky flavor and satisfying crispness.
- Honey: The star sweetener that creates the luscious syrup.
- Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps balance the sweetness of honey.
- Maple syrup (optional): Introduces a warm, complex sweetness to the honey butter syrup.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
How to Make Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Batter
Begin by whisking together the cornbread mix, buttermilk, and egg in a bowl until the batter is smooth and lump-free. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a savory touch, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. This step ensures each bite will have a melty, smoky surprise.
Step 2: Cook the Waffle Bites
Next, preheat your mini waffle maker and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Spoon about a tablespoon of batter into each waffle mold section, then close the lid and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bites turn a beautiful golden brown. The result? Crisp edges with a soft, tender center that’s begging to be dipped in syrup.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Syrup
While your waffle bites cook, gently warm honey, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Give it a good stir until everything is melted together into a silky, shiny syrup. If you like, drizzle in a splash of maple syrup for that extra layer of natural sweetness that complements the cornbread flavors perfectly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your golden cornbread waffle bites on a serving platter and generously drizzle them with your warm honey butter syrup. Serve immediately while they’re crisp outside and soft inside for the best experience. Trust me, they disappear fast once everyone takes a bite!
How to Serve Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add extra bursts of flavor, top your waffle bites with fresh herbs like chopped chives for a hint of brightness or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to contrast the sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar also looks charming if you want to emphasize the sweet notes.
Side Dishes
These waffle bites pair beautifully with simple sides like fresh fruit or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. If serving for brunch, fried or scrambled eggs, and avocado slices make fantastic companions that add creamy textures and proteins.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe as bite-sized appetizers on a wooden board or arrange them on skewers for easy sharing at a party. Another idea is layering them with dollops of whipped cream and fresh berries in mini glasses for a layered sweet and savory parfait experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your waffle bites, any leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness without becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, these waffle bites freeze wonderfully. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze and then transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months, making them a convenient grab-and-go treat.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the frozen or refrigerated waffle bites into a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This revives their crispiness beautifully. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I make these Cornbread Waffle Bites without bacon or cheese?
Absolutely! The recipe works perfectly without those add-ins. The cornbread base is flavorful and tender on its own, so feel free to omit the bacon and cheddar if you prefer a simpler, vegetarian-friendly version.
What type of cornbread mix should I use?
Any store-bought cornbread mix works great. Look for one without added sugar or spices if you want to control the sweetness. Homemade cornbread mix can also work if you have a favorite recipe on hand.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes before using. This adds the same tang and acidity needed for tender waffle bites.
Can I use a regular waffle maker instead of a mini one?
Definitely! While mini waffle makers give you perfect bite-sized pieces, a regular waffle maker can be used to make larger waffles that you can slice into small squares or wedges.
How sweet is the honey butter syrup?
The syrup strikes a lovely balance between sweet and buttery richness with a slight hint of salt to keep it from being cloying. The optional maple syrup adds complexity but the honey and butter alone make a gorgeous pairing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the melding of sweet, savory, and buttery elements in the Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, these bites are sure to put a smile on every face at the table. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to snack or breakfast delight!
Print
Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Cornbread Waffle Bites with Honey Butter Syrup are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, combining the crispy texture of mini waffles with the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and bacon. Perfect for breakfast or a savory snack, they are drizzled with a warm, sweet honey butter syrup that enhances every bite.
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)
Honey Butter Syrup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, buttermilk, and egg. Stir until the batter is smooth and well mixed. If using, carefully fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
- Cook the Waffle Bites: Preheat a mini waffle maker and lightly grease the cooking plates to prevent sticking. Pour about one tablespoon of batter into each section of the waffle maker. Close the lid and cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffle bites are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the waffle maker as needed.
- Make the Honey Butter Syrup: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, unsalted butter, and optional maple syrup along with a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked cornbread waffle bites on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm honey butter syrup. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can omit the cheddar cheese and bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Make sure the mini waffle maker is preheated for even cooking and crispy bites.
- Adjust the sweetness of the syrup by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your preference.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven if needed.
- For a gluten-free option, use a cornbread mix labeled gluten-free.
