If you’re a fan of cornbread but don’t love waiting around for it to bake, you’re going to really enjoy this! Making cornbread in the air fryer is a total game-changer. It’s fast, simple, and gives you that golden, fluffy cornbread you crave—all without turning on the oven. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or looking to impress friends with your air fryer skills, this method is perfect.
What You’ll Need: Simple Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Cornbread
Before you start, gather these ingredients. Chances are, you already have most of them in your kitchen:
- cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind works great)
- cup all-purpose flour
- 1/ cup granulated sugar (feel free to adjust)
- tablespoon baking powder (this helps it rise nice and fluffy)
- 1/ teaspoon salt
- cup milk (dairy or your favorite plant-based milk)
- 1/ cup melted butter (or oil if you want it dairy-free)
- large egg
Pro tip: Swap regular milk for buttermilk if you want your cornbread extra moist and a little tangy.
Step 1: Mix It Up! How to Prepare Your Cornbread Batter
Grab a big bowl and let’s get mixing:
- Start by whisking together all the dry ingredients—cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Next, add in the wet ingredients—milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir gently until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter thick but pourable, kind of like pancake batter.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some corn kernels, shredded cheese, or diced jalapeños for a fun twist.
Step 2: Pick the Right Pan for Your Air Fryer
Not all pans fit inside an air fryer, so here’s what to look for:
- A silicone baking pan or a small round cake pan about inches wide usually works best.
- Make sure it’s oven-safe and fits comfortably in your air fryer basket.
- Don’t forget to grease the pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray so your cornbread slides out easily.
If you don’t have a pan, you can even shape some aluminum foil into a shallow bowl—it works surprisingly well!
Step 3: Time to Air Fry! Setting the Perfect Temperature and Cooking Time
Here’s where the magic happens. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about minutes.
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Carefully place the pan in the air fryer basket and cook for to minutes. Start checking around minutes by poking the center with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through cooking to prevent burning.
Step 4: How to Know When Your Cornbread Is Ready
To check if your cornbread is done, stick a toothpick or skewer in the middle. If it comes out clean, you’re good! The edges should also start pulling away slightly from the pan.
Let it cool in the pan for about minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack for another minutes. This helps keep the bottom from getting soggy and makes slicing easier.
Step 5: Serving Ideas That Will Make Your Cornbread Shine
Now for the best part—eating it! Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your air fryer cornbread:
- Spread it with honey butter or drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet treat.
- Serve alongside chili, soup, or your favorite BBQ for a classic combo.
- Crumble it over salads or use it as a base for stuffing.
- Top with sour cream and fresh herbs for a savory snack.
Bonus Tips for Cornbread Perfection Every Time
- Always preheat your air fryer to make sure the cornbread cooks evenly.
- Use fresh baking powder to get a nice rise.
- Mix the batter just enough to combine the ingredients—overmixing can make it tough.
- Try adding flavors like cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or cinnamon to switch things up.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container—they’ll stay fresh for up to days.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cornbread
Making cornbread in the air fryer is quick, fun, and foolproof. Whether you’re new to baking or a kitchen pro, this easy method will have you enjoying warm, fluffy cornbread in no time. Plus, you get that perfect crispy crust without heating up your whole kitchen!
