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Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey bring together the comforting texture of cornbread and the rich, smoky taste of Gouda cheese, enhanced by a sweet honey drizzle. These crispy little bites are perfect for sharing, whether as an appetizer or a snack, and they turn a simple waffle iron into a source of deliciously unique treats. The combination of savory and sweet is irresistible and sure to delight guests at any occasion.
I made these the first time for a weekend gathering and everyone was asking for the recipe before the plate was even empty.
Ingredients
- Cornmeal: A coarse texture essential for the traditional cornbread feel and provides a pleasant bite. Choose fine or medium grind for the best texture
- All-purpose flour: Adds structure to the batter and helps the waffle bites hold together Select fresh, unbleached flour for better flavor
- Baking powder: This leavening agent makes the bites light and fluffy Be sure to use fresh baking powder for proper rise
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the recipe Use fine sea salt or table salt
- Milk: Provides moisture and richness Opt for whole milk or your preference for creaminess
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to fluffiness Use free-range or organic eggs for the best quality
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps with the golden crust Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level
- Smoked Gouda cheese: Grated smoked Gouda gives a distinctive smoky flavor and creamy texture Opt for authentic smoked Gouda from Holland or local French varieties for something unique
- Honey: For drizzling to add a subtle sweetness Choose a light, mild honey so it does not overpower the cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron:
- Preheat your waffle iron to the right temperature according to its instructions. Lightly grease it with olive oil or a non-stick spray. This ensures your waffle bites will not stick and will develop a nice crispy crust.
- Make the Batter:
- In a bowl, mix cornmeal flour baking powder and salt until evenly combined. In another bowl, whisk together milk eggs and melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently just to combine. Overmixing can lead to tough bites. Fold in the grated smoked Gouda cheese carefully to evenly distribute the smoky flavor throughout the batter.
- Cook the Waffle Bites:
- Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of batter onto the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the bites are golden brown and crispy outside. Cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron so check for the right crispness. Carefully remove the bites and continue cooking the remaining batter the same way.
- Serve:
- Arrange the warm waffle bites on a serving plate and drizzle with honey. The honey adds a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky cheese. Serve immediately for the best contrast between crispy and soft textures.
I especially love the contrast between the crunchy waffle exterior and the tender inside bursting with melted cheese. One weekend I made a double batch for a family brunch and it disappeared in minutes with everyone reaching for seconds.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain fresh for up to three days. When you want to eat them again simply reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to revive their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If smoked Gouda is unavailable try a smoked cheddar or Gruyère for a similar smoky character. For a dairy free version substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a vegan butter alternative. Honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different type of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are fantastic served alongside a fresh green salad or bowl of soup. They also work beautifully as hors d’oeuvres with a variety of dipping sauces such as a spicy aioli or a tangy mustard. Drizzling extra honey right before serving adds a lovely final touch.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to revive crispiness if serving later.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Quelle est la meilleure façon de cuire ces bouchées ?
Utilisez un gaufrier préchauffé et légèrement huilé pour obtenir une cuisson uniforme et des bouchées bien croustillantes.
- → Peut-on remplacer le gouda fumé ?
Oui, un autre fromage à pâte dure fumé ou un cheddar peut apporter une saveur similaire.
- → Comment conserver les bouchées après cuisson ?
Conservez-les dans une boîte hermétique au réfrigérateur et réchauffez-les au four ou au gaufrier avant de servir.
- → Peut-on ajouter des épices pour plus de goût ?
Absolument, le paprika fumé ou le poivre de Cayenne se marient bien avec le gouda pour relever la saveur.
- → Le miel est-il indispensable ?
Le miel apporte une touche sucrée et équilibrée, mais vous pouvez aussi essayer un filet de sirop d'érable ou une compote légère.