There’s something absolutely magical about the way sweet honey meets smoky Gouda wrapped in the comforting bite of cornbread.

These Cornbread Waffle Bites are my go-to when I want something cozy, cheesy, and fun to eat—perfect for brunch, snacking, or even party platters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Waffle texture + cornbread flavor = pure bliss

The smoked Gouda adds richness and depth

Honey drizzle gives just a kiss of sweetness

Bites are handheld and perfect for sharing

Easy to make with mix or homemade batter

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Cornbread mix or homemade batter: Use your favorite mix, or make your own.

Smoked Gouda: Adds a deep, savory flavor and melts beautifully.

Egg, milk & melted butter: Classic wet ingredients for fluffy, rich batter.

Honey: The final drizzle makes all the difference.

Olive oil or non-stick spray: Helps crisp the edges and prevents sticking.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Preheat your waffle iron fully for maximum crispness.

Don’t overfill the iron—cornbread batter expands.

Mix the cheese into the batter, not just on top.

Let the waffles rest 1 minute before removing to prevent tearing.

Want spicy? Add chopped jalapeños or hot honey!

How to Make Cornbread Waffle Bites

Step 1: Heat the Waffle Iron

Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions.

Lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick spray so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Make the Cornbread Batter

In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter as directed on the package or your go-to homemade version.

Stir in the grated smoked Gouda cheese until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Cook the Waffles

Spoon the batter into the center of each waffle section—fill it only about halfway.

Close the lid and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Remove & Rest

Use a spatula or fork to gently lift the waffles out of the iron.

Place them on a plate and let cool slightly so they firm up.

Step 5: Add the Honey Drizzle

Just before serving, drizzle warm honey over the top.

The mix of sweet and smoky flavors is heavenly. Serve and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

Fried or poached eggs

Crispy bacon or sausage

Hot honey or maple syrup

Fresh fruit or a tangy slaw

A small cup of chili for dipping

Variations / Substitutions

Cheese swap: Try sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or crumbled feta.

Add-ins: Fold in chopped scallions, jalapeños, or corn kernels.

Mini version: Use a mini waffle iron for bite-sized pieces.

Vegan option: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan cheese.

Sweet twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon and serve with butter & syrup.

Storage & Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely before storing.

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the toaster or oven to bring back crispiness.

You can freeze them too—just wrap individually in foil or plastic.

To reheat from frozen, use a toaster oven or bake at 350°F until hot.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cornbread batter?
Yes! Any homemade cornbread recipe will work beautifully.

What waffle maker should I use?
Any standard waffle iron works, but a mini waffle maker is great for bite-size pieces.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely—store them in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What cheese works best if I don’t have Gouda?
Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or smoked mozzarella are all great options.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—just use a gluten-free cornbread mix or batter.

Is the honey drizzle optional?
Totally, but I highly recommend it for that sweet-salty combo.

Can kids eat these?
Yes, they’ll love them! Just skip spicy add-ins for little ones.

Final Thoughts

These Savory Cornbread Waffle Bites are warm, crispy, cheesy little pockets of joy.

Whether you’re hosting brunch or just need a comfort snack, this recipe always delivers.

Once you try it with that honey drizzle—you’ll never look at cornbread the same way again.

The Boat Shed Kitchen

Cornbread Waffle Bites

These Cornbread Waffle Bites are the ultimate bite-sized comfort food — crisp on the outside, fluffy inside, loaded with smoky Gouda, and drizzled with golden honey. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or brunch snack, they bring a fun twist to traditional cornbread.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bites

Calories: 130

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 package 8.5 oz / 240 g cornbread mix (or equivalent homemade batter)
• 1 cup 100 g smoked Gouda cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup 120 ml milk
• 2 tablespoons 30 g unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons 30 ml honey (for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon 15 ml olive oil or non-stick spray (for greasing waffle iron)

Method

 

1. Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, prepare the cornbread batter as directed on the package or using your favorite homemade version.
3. Stir in the grated smoked Gouda cheese until evenly incorporated.
4. Spoon the batter into the waffle iron, filling each section about halfway.
5. Close the lid and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Remove waffles carefully and place on a serving plate.
7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/cornbread-waffle-bites/

Notes

• Smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese also works beautifully in this recipe.
• For a savory twist, skip the honey and top with a dollop of sour cream.
• Best served immediately for maximum crispness.