Air Fryer Corn Bread

This Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe is made with flour, corn meal, sugar, baking powder, whole milk, oil and eggs.

If you're a fan of this classic Southern comfort food, then you're in for a treat. Our recipe will guide you through creating a moist and golden-brown cornbread, all using the convenience and efficiency of an air fryer. No need to heat up your oven or wait for it to preheat – the air fryer will deliver perfectly cooked cornbread with a crispy exterior and a tender crumb.

Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of cornmeal, butter, and a touch of sweetness in every bite. Join us on this cornbread adventure as we explore the wonders of the air fryer and create a mouthwatering cornbread that will have you coming back for seconds.

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Jump to:

• What is Cornbread?
• Why should I use an Air Fryer to make Cornbread?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Air Fryer Cornbread
• What to serve with Air Fryer Cornbread
• Substitutions
• Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Air Fryer Cornbread
• Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Top tips
• Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe
• Food safety

What is Cornbread?

Cornbread is a type of bread made primarily with cornmeal, a coarsely ground flour made from dried corn kernels. It is a popular staple in Southern American cuisine and has become well-known and loved throughout the United States and beyond.

Traditional cornbread recipes typically include a mixture of cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, eggs, and fat (such as butter or oil). The combination of these ingredients results in a slightly crumbly texture with a hint of sweetness.

Why should I use an Air Fryer to make Cornbread?

• Quick and Efficient Cooking: Air fryers use rapid air circulation and heat to cook food quickly and evenly. When making cornbread, the hot air circulates around the batter, resulting in a faster cooking time compared to traditional baking methods. This means you can enjoy freshly baked cornbread in less time.
• Even Heating and Browning: The circulating hot air in the air fryer helps to evenly heat the cornbread batter, resulting in uniform cooking and browning. This ensures that your cornbread has a golden, crispy exterior while remaining moist and tender on the inside.
• Crisp Texture: The air fryer's cooking method creates a crisp texture on the outside of the cornbread. This can be particularly appealing if you enjoy a slightly crunchy crust on your cornbread.

Why you will love this recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich Marsala wine sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. The savory chicken pairs perfectly with the umami-rich mushrooms, while the Marsala wine adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe provides a great base for customization and adaptation to suit your preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, herbs, and even add extra vegetables or ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to personalize the dish to your liking.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Chicken Marsala Pasta is a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. The combination of protein-packed chicken, hearty mushrooms, and the indulgent pasta creates a filling and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering.

Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Flour
• Cornmeal
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Whole milk
• Olive oil
• Egg whites

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Air Fryer Cornbread

Hint: Don't Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cornbread. It's okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.

What to serve with Air Fryer Cornbread

• Chili: The combination of cornbread and chili is a classic and comforting duo. Serve a bowl of your favorite chili alongside a slice of warm cornbread for a satisfying meal.
• Barbecue: Cornbread complements the smoky flavors of barbecued meats perfectly. Serve it alongside pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken for a Southern-inspired feast. Check out my Oven Baked Ribs Recipe.
• Soup or Beans: Cornbread can be a great accompaniment to hearty soups and stews. It's particularly delicious with creamy soups like corn chowder or tomato soup. Check out my Instant Pot Baked Beans Recipe.
• Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken and cornbread go hand in hand. Serve your air-fried cornbread with some deliciously seasoned fried chicken for a classic Southern-style meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Cornbread can add a nice contrast to roasted vegetables. Serve it alongside roasted root vegetables, Brussels sprouts, or grilled vegetables for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Substitutions

• Cornmeal: Cornmeal is a key ingredient in cornbread, but if you don't have it on hand, you can try these alternatives:
  • Corn flour: Corn flour is a finer version of cornmeal and can be used as a substitute. However, the texture of the cornbread may be slightly different.
  • Polenta: Polenta is coarsely ground cornmeal and can work as a substitute. It may result in a slightly different texture, but it will still yield a delicious cornbread.
• All-Purpose Flour: If you need a substitute for all-purpose flour in your cornbread recipe, you can try these options:
  • Whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutritional value to your cornbread.
  • Gluten-free flour blend: If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute. Make sure it is specifically formulated for baking.
• Sugar: If you prefer to reduce or substitute the sugar in your cornbread, you can try these alternatives:
  • Honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to your cornbread. Use it in a 1:1 ratio with the sugar called for in the recipe.
  • Maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a distinct flavor and sweetness to your cornbread. Again, use it in a 1:1 ratio with the sugar.

Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Cornbread: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to the cornbread batter for a cheesy twist. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top before air frying to create a golden, melty crust.
• Jalapeno Cornbread: For a spicy kick, finely chop some jalapeno peppers and add them to the batter. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. The combination of cornbread and jalapenos adds a flavorful and zesty element to the recipe.
• Bacon Cornbread: Cook crispy bacon, crumble it, and fold it into the cornbread batter before air frying. The addition of bacon adds a smoky and savory element to the cornbread.

Check out this Keto Hushpuppies Recipe.

Equipment

• Air Fryer: A countertop air fryer with a basket or tray is essential for this recipe. Make sure your air fryer is in good working condition and clean before you begin.
• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is needed to combine the dry and wet ingredients for the cornbread batter.
• Whisk or Spoon: You'll need a whisk or a spoon to mix the ingredients together and ensure they are well combined.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Have a set of measuring cups and spoons handy to measure out the ingredients precisely.
• Oven Mitts or Heat-Resistant Gloves: Air fryers can get hot during the cooking process. To handle the air fryer basket or tray, use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.
• Cooling Rack (Optional): Once the cornbread is cooked, you can transfer it to a cooling rack to cool down and prevent it from becoming soggy on the bottom.
• Serving Plate or Cutting Board: When the cornbread is ready to be served, you'll need a plate or cutting board to present it.

How to store Air Fryer Cornbread

• Allow the Cornbread to Cool: Before storing, make sure the cornbread has completely cooled down. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the texture intact.
• Wrap in Plastic Wrap or Foil: Wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that it is sealed well to prevent air exposure and maintain moisture.
• Place in an Airtight Container: If you prefer, you can transfer the wrapped cornbread to an airtight container instead of using plastic wrap or foil alone. This provides an extra layer of protection against air and helps maintain freshness.
• Store at Room Temperature: Keep the cornbread at room temperature if you plan to consume it within 1-2 days. Properly wrapped cornbread can stay fresh at room temperature for this duration without any significant changes in texture or flavor.
• Refrigeration (for Longer Storage): If you want to store the cornbread for an extended period, such as up to a week, refrigeration is recommended. Place the wrapped cornbread in the refrigerator and ensure it is well protected from moisture and odors by keeping it in an airtight container or sealing it in a resealable plastic bag.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy the stored cornbread, you can reheat individual slices in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore its warmth and crispness. Alternatively, you can wrap the cornbread in foil and warm it in a preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Air Fryer Cornbread Recipe Top tips

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like with traditional baking, preheating the air fryer helps ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature for the cornbread recipe before placing the batter inside.
• Grease the Air Fryer Basket or Tray: To prevent sticking, lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray before adding the cornbread batter. This will make it easier to remove the cornbread once it's cooked.
• Use the Right Size Pan or Mould: Make sure the pan or mould you use fits inside your air fryer without touching the sides. This allows for proper air circulation, resulting in evenly cooked cornbread.
• Don't Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cornbread. It's okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.
• Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature: Different air fryer models may vary in cooking time and temperature. Keep an eye on the cornbread while it's cooking and adjust the time or temperature if necessary to ensure it doesn't burn or undercook.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cornbread is cooked through. Insert it into the center of the cornbread—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cornbread is ready. If there's batter sticking to the toothpick, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
• Let it Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cornbread to set and makes it easier to handle without crumbling.
• Experiment with Flavor Additions: Feel free to customize your cornbread by adding additional ingredients like cheese, herbs, or spices. These additions can enhance the flavor and create a unique cornbread experience.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.