Ingredients:
For the Cornbread Waffle Bites:
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make the Cornbread Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Cook the Waffle Bites:
Lightly grease the waffle iron with nonstick spray or butter.
Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of batter onto each section of the waffle iron. Close the lid and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove the waffle bites and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Add the Smoked Gouda:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the waffle bites on a baking sheet and sprinkle shredded smoked Gouda cheese over the top.
Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Drizzle with Honey:
Transfer the waffle bites to a serving platter.
Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired.
Serve:
Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Tips:
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cornbread batter.
If you don’t have smoked Gouda, you can use another smoky cheese like smoked cheddar or mozzarella.
Make the waffle bites ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes before adding the cheese and honey.
These Cornbread Waffle Bites with Smoked Gouda and Honey are a unique and delicious treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors! 
