Air-Fried Jiffy Cornbread: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Cornbread is a classic Southern food recipe and a great side dish for any meal. It is inexpensive and easy to make. You can make cornbread in an air fryer using a box of Jiffy Cornbread Mix, an egg, and milk. First, preheat your air fryer to 310-330 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. Then, in a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients with the egg and milk. Mix well, scraping the sides to get all of the mix. Next, spray your pan with cooking spray and pour the batter into the pan. Finally, air fry for 14-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Choosing the right pan

Material

Select a pan made from materials that can withstand the high temperatures of an air fryer, typically up to 400°F (200°C) or higher. Good options include stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone. These materials are durable, heat-resistant, and won't warp or melt.

Non-Stick Coating

A non-stick coating is highly recommended as it simplifies cleaning and makes food release easier. Look for a high-quality, durable non-stick surface that is also PFOA-free.

Size and Shape

Ensure the pan fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the heating element or obstructing air circulation. The pan should be large enough to fit the cornbread batter comfortably without filling it to the very top, which can lead to uneven cooking. Consider using a pan with lower sides to promote optimal airflow, which is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.

Compatibility

Check that the pan is compatible with your specific air fryer model. Different brands and models may have varying sizes and shapes, so it's important to verify that the pan will fit properly.

Versatility

Some air fryer pans come with removable handles, allowing them to be used as baking dishes in the oven as well. This versatility can be useful if you plan to use the pan for various cooking methods.

Ease of Cleaning

Look for a pan that is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning. While non-stick surfaces already make cleaning easier, be sure to follow the care instructions to prolong the lifespan of your pan.

Perforations

Consider using a pan with holes or perforations, such as an air fryer basket. These holes allow for optimal airflow and help drain excess oil, resulting in crispier cornbread.

Color

Darker pans, such as dark non-stick baking sheets, are recommended as they heat up faster and promote even browning. Lighter-colored pans may reflect heat, leading to uneven cooking and longer cooking times.

Depth

The depth of the pan depends on the type of recipe you're making. Shallow pans are suitable for roasting vegetables or making frittatas, while deeper pans are ideal for casseroles or lasagnas.

Bundt Pans

If you're looking for a great presentation, a Bundt pan is an excellent choice for air fryer cornbread. The hole in the center of the pan ensures even cooking, and you don't have to worry about the middle remaining uncooked.

Cast Iron Skillets

Cast iron skillets can be used in an air fryer, but they have some drawbacks. They are slow to heat up and not ideal for delicate foods that may burn easily. However, they retain heat well and can provide even cooking for certain dishes, especially meats.

When making Jiffy cornbread in your air fryer, keep in mind that the exact cooking time may vary depending on the pan you choose. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines for your specific air fryer model to ensure safe and successful cooking.

Ingredients and preparation

To make jiffy cornbread in an air fryer, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (one box)
• Milk
• Egg
• Sweetener/sugar (optional)
• Butter (melted)
• Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil/avocado oil spray

Some recipes also suggest adding whole kernel corn to the mixture for added texture.

Method

First, whisk the milk, eggs, sweetener (if using), and melted butter together in a medium or large bowl. Then, fold in the jiffy cornbread mix and gently combine.

Next, spray your air fryer baking pan accessory (or an oven-safe round dish that fits in your air fryer) with oil. Add the cornbread batter to the pan.

Air fry at around 310-330 degrees Fahrenheit for 14-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cornbread comes out clean.

Note that the exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the pan you are using. It's important not to overmix the cornbread mix, as this can make the cornbread tough and dense.

Serving Suggestions

Jiffy cornbread is a versatile side dish that can be served with various meals. Some serving suggestions include:

• Chilli
• Smothered chicken
• Candied yams
• Baked macaroni and cheese
• Collard greens with smoked turkey
• Baked beans
• Taco salad
• Steak
• Turkey
• Creamy gravy
• Honey or butter

Cooking method and timings

The cooking method for making Jiffy cornbread in an air fryer is straightforward. First, you need to mix the ingredients in a bowl. The exact ingredients may vary depending on the recipe you are following, but typically, you will need to combine a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix with an egg and milk. You can also add other ingredients like sugar, butter, or whole kernel corn to enhance the flavour and texture. It is important not to overmix the batter, as this can affect the texture of the cornbread.

Once you have a smooth batter, the next step is to prepare the air fryer. Lightly grease the baking pan or dish that fits into your air fryer with oil or cooking spray. This step ensures that the cornbread doesn't stick to the pan. Then, pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Now, you are ready to air fry the cornbread. Set the temperature of your air fryer to between 310-350 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact temperature and timing may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the type of pan you are using. As a guide, cook the cornbread for 14 to 22 minutes. To check if the cornbread is done, insert a toothpick into the centre of the cornbread. If it comes out clean, without any wet batter, your cornbread is ready. If not, you may need to air fry for a few more minutes.

Once cooked, allow the cornbread to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it as a side dish with various meals, such as chilli, chicken, or baked beans.

Storing and reheating

Storing Cornbread

Cornbread should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. It can be kept at room temperature for one to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, storing cornbread in the refrigerator can dry it out, so it is not recommended.

The best way to extend the shelf life of cornbread without drying it out is to freeze it. Wrap individual slices or a whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Cornbread can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Cornbread

Reheating cornbread can be done in several ways, including the stovetop, oven, microwave, toaster, or air fryer.

To reheat cornbread in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cornbread in aluminium foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

For the microwave, place cornbread slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 20-30-second intervals until the desired warmth is reached.

To reheat cornbread in the air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the edges are crispy.

Reheating cornbread in the toaster is a quick option, but it can be messy and may cause the cornbread to fall apart. Simply place the slices in the toaster and toast for 2-3 minutes.

Finally, the stovetop method involves melting butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add cornbread slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and toasted.

There you have it! Your Jiffy cornbread can be enjoyed for days after baking, with a variety of reheating methods to choose from.

Serving suggestions

Jiffy cornbread is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or the main event. It's a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your jiffy cornbread:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a slice of jiffy cornbread and a fried egg on top. You can also serve it with some crispy bacon or breakfast sausage on the side.
• Brunch: For a heartier morning meal, pair your jiffy cornbread with a refreshing taco salad or some baked beans.
• Lunch or Dinner: Jiffy cornbread makes an excellent side dish for a variety of meals. Try serving it with a bowl of chilli or your favourite comfort food, such as smothered chicken, candied yams, macaroni and cheese, or collard greens with smoked turkey. It also goes well with BBQ foods like ribs or chicken wings.
• Dessert: For a sweet treat, enjoy your jiffy cornbread warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top.

When serving jiffy cornbread, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different dishes. It's a versatile side that can complement many meals, and its sweetness makes it a great dessert option too.

Frequently asked questions