Air Fryer Cornbread
A quick and easy recipe to enjoy classic Southern cornbread with a golden crust and fluffy inside, all made in the air fryer. Perfect as a side dish for stews, soups, or barbecue, this recipe is a time-saving twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal medium-grind recommended
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar or honey/maple syrup for sweetness
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal medium-grind recommended
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar or honey/maple syrup for sweetness
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk or plant-based alternative like almond milk
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option
- 1 large egg or flaxseed egg for a vegan version
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Grease the basket or tray with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Stir well to distribute evenly.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg. Ensure the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Prepare the Batter:
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread tender.
Pour into Air Fryer Basket:
- Transfer the batter into a greased baking dish or directly into the air fryer basket (ensure the batter is spread evenly).
Cook:
- Set the air fryer to cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes. Begin checking at the 15-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cornbread is ready.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cornbread carefully and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, or swap the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.
- Flavor Variations: Add ½ cup shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for a flavorful twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Pro Tip: For extra crispness, brush melted butter on top halfway through cooking.