Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe – Fluffy, Golden, and Easy to Make

Cornbread is a timeless classic, loved for its rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture. This comfort food pairs perfectly with soups, stews, chili, or as a standalone snack. If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to make cornbread, an air fryer is your secret weapon! Using an air fryer ensures even cooking, creating a golden, crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

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This Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a simple treat, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s ready in less time than traditional baking methods. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time (Cooking): 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Cuisine: Southern, American
• Course: Side Dish, Snack
• Servings: 6-8 slices
• Calories (Per Serving): Approximately 190 calories

Equipment

• Air fryer
• 6- or 7-inch round cake pan (or silicone mold that fits your air fryer)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal (yellow or white)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• Optional: 1/4 cup honey for added sweetness

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 250mg

Instructions

1. Prepare the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly grease a 6- or 7-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and honey (if using). Make sure the butter has cooled slightly to avoid cooking the egg.
4. Mix the Batter:
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cornbread dense. The batter should be thick but pourable.
5. Transfer to Pan:
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
6. Cook in the Air Fryer:
   Place the cake pan into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cornbread—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
7. Cool and Rest:
   Remove the pan from the air fryer and let the cornbread rest for 5 minutes. This allows it to set and makes slicing easier.
8. Slice and Serve:
   Carefully remove the cornbread from the pan. Slice into wedges or squares and serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cornbread

• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make your cornbread tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Customize Flavors: Add chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, or cooked bacon bits for a flavorful twist.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the cornbread rest ensures it holds its shape and improves the texture.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Cornbread?

Air fryers are a game-changer for baking small-batch recipes. The circulating hot air cooks the cornbread evenly, creating a beautiful golden crust while keeping the interior moist and tender. Plus, you don’t have to heat up your entire kitchen with a traditional oven.

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread is incredibly versatile. Serve it as:

• A side dish with soups, chili, or BBQ.
• A snack with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
• A breakfast option topped with jam or paired with scrambled eggs.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free Cornbread: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Sweet Cornbread: Increase the sugar to 1/3 cup and add 1/4 cup honey for a sweeter version.
3. Savory Cornbread: Skip the sugar and add diced onions, green chilies, or grated cheese to the batter.

This Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a quick, delicious, and foolproof way to make cornbread. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So fire up your air fryer and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of homemade cornbread!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.