
Crispy yet fluffy Cornbread Waffle Bites served with rich honey butter syrup make every bite a sweet and savory celebration. Perfect for breakfast brunch or party snacks these easy homemade bites satisfy every time with their comforting cornbread base and decadent drizzle.
The first time I served these at a family brunch they disappeared in minutes and everyone begged for the recipe. Now they are my go to for potlucks and holiday mornings.
Ingredients
- Cornbread mix: provides a reliable base for fluffy texture aim for a brand with a crumbly tender result
- Buttermilk: creates tanginess and tenderness use real buttermilk for the best classic flavor
- Large egg: helps bind while adding richness room temperature eggs incorporate more smoothly
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds gooey savory depth choose a sharp cheddar for a bolder bite
- Cooked crumbled bacon: brings salty crunch pat it dry so it mixes well optional for meat lovers
- Honey: delivers natural sweetness opt for pure honey for a pronounced floral note
- Unsalted butter: brings creaminess and richness fresh butter is best for smoother syrup
- Maple syrup: lends a nuanced sweetness use real maple if possible optional for extra complexity
- Pinch of salt: balances the syrup and brings out both sweet and savory flavors
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Waffle Batter:
- In a medium bowl combine the cornbread mix buttermilk and egg whisking until no dry streaks remain then gently fold in cheddar and bacon if using to keep the batter extra fluffy
- Preheat and Grease the Waffle Iron:
- Turn on your mini waffle maker and let it heat completely then lightly brush with oil or use a nonstick spray to prevent sticking and promote crispy edges
- Cook the Waffle Bites:
- Drop a generous tablespoon of batter onto each waffle section and close the iron allow to cook undisturbed for three or four minutes until deeply golden and crisp then carefully lift them out to cool slightly
- Make the Honey Butter Syrup:
- In a small saucepan over low heat stir together honey butter and maple syrup stirring until melted and smooth finish with a pinch of salt for balance and shine
- Serve While Warm:
- Arrange waffle bites on your favorite platter drizzle them generously with the warm honey butter syrup and serve immediately for the best texture

My favorite part is folding in sharp cheddar just before cooking because the gooey cheese pockets remind me of my childhood lunches. Sharing these at brunch always sparks happy memories of big family tables and loud laughter.
Storage Tips
Once cooled keep your waffle bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days and can be reheated in a toaster oven or briefly in the microwave to restore their crispiness. The honey butter syrup can be refrigerated in a separate jar and gently rewarmed before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to make these gluten free choose a trusted gluten free cornbread mix and check that your bacon is safe for dietary needs. No buttermilk on hand Mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for five minutes as a stand in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve piled high for breakfast with fresh fruit or as playful appetizers with extra bacon crumbles on the side. These also make a fun addition to brunch boards paired with sliced ham or eggs any style. For a sweeter spin dust with powdered sugar before finishing with honey syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How can I make these waffle bites gluten-free?
Replace the regular cornbread mix with a gluten-free version for a gluten-free treat.
- → Can I prepare the waffle bites ahead of time?
Yes, store cooked bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly before serving.
- → Are there ways to add extra flavor?
Try folding in diced jalapeños, a dash of cinnamon, or swapping cheddar and bacon for other favorite add-ins.
- → What can I use instead of a mini waffle maker?
A standard waffle maker can be used; simply portion smaller amounts of batter to create bite-sized pieces.
- → Is the honey butter syrup optional?
The bites are delicious on their own, but the syrup adds a decadent, sweet finish. You can also substitute with maple syrup if desired.