Golden and savory, these crispy waffles are loaded with finely diced ham and crafted with a tender buttermilk-style batter. They offer the perfect contrast of crisp edges and soft centers, made even more indulgent with a dollop of herbed cream or sour cream. Ideal for brunch gatherings or a comforting weekend breakfast, these waffles deliver both flavor and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These waffles are the perfect union of texture and taste: crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and rich with smoky ham. The addition of cornmeal provides a rustic crunch, while the tang from the buttermilk-style base keeps the flavor bright and balanced. Topped with creamy, herb-laced sour cream or cream cheese, they’re a standout savory option for any brunch table.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Waffles:

Unsalted butter, melted
Ham, finely diced
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal
Sugar
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Eggs (medium)
Whey or milk + lemon juice (buttermilk substitute)

Optional Topping:

Sour cream or cream cheese
Chopped fresh dill or chives

directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, whey (or milk with lemon juice), and melted butter until combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated—do not overmix.
Fold in the diced ham evenly throughout the batter.
Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it if necessary.
Pour batter into the waffle iron and cook according to your machine’s instructions, typically until golden brown and crispy.
Serve the waffles hot, topped with a generous spoonful of sour cream or herbed cream cheese, garnished with dill or chives if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 waffles
Calories per serving: Approximately 390 kcal

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or shredded zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or gouda to the batter for a cheesy depth.
Spicy Option: Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Mini Waffles: Make smaller waffles to serve as appetizers or party bites.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk with lemon juice and dairy-free butter to accommodate dairy-free diets.

storage/reheating

Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispness. Waffles can also be frozen for up to 1 month; reheat directly from frozen for best results.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought buttermilk instead of whey or the substitute?

Yes, store-bought buttermilk is an excellent substitute and will provide the same tangy flavor and tender texture.

What kind of ham works best?

Fully cooked ham, such as deli ham or leftover roasted ham, works well. Ensure it’s finely diced for even distribution.

Can I make the batter in advance?

It’s best to use the batter fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 6 hours. Stir gently before using.

Can I make these waffles without a waffle iron?

This recipe is specifically designed for a waffle iron. However, you can try making pancakes with the batter in a non-stick skillet.

Is cornmeal necessary?

Cornmeal adds texture and flavor, but you can replace it with more flour if unavailable, though the result will be softer.

Can I freeze the cooked waffles?

Yes, allow them to cool completely, then freeze between layers of parchment. Reheat in the oven or toaster.

What’s a good substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or whipped cream cheese as alternatives.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. You may want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose for balance.

How do I keep the waffles crispy?

Serve them immediately or keep them warm in a single layer on a rack in a 95°C (200°F) oven until ready to serve.

Can I add vegetables to the batter?

Yes, finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots can be added, but reduce the moisture by patting them dry first.

Conclusion

Crispy Waffles with Ham and Herbed Cream are a savory brunch classic that brings together comforting ingredients with fresh, flavorful touches. Whether enjoyed fresh off the waffle iron or reheated for a quick meal, they offer a satisfying and versatile dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Perfect for weekend brunches or special breakfasts, this recipe combines rustic simplicity with gourmet appeal.