Air-Fryer Cornbread

Imagine biting into a slice of golden cornbread with a crisp crust and a fluffy, moist interior—all without turning on your oven. This air-fryer cornbread is a 30-minute recipe that does just that!

Harnessing the power of the air fryer, our Test Kitchen-approved recipe creates a perfectly cooked batch of cornbread that gets rave reviews at holidays and potluck dinners. What’s more, it’s so easy to customize. Fold in fruit like diced apples or blueberries for an autumnal twist, or spice things up with chopped jalapenos for a kick that pairs perfectly with a bowl of chili.

Air-Fryer Cornbread Ingredients

• Yellow cornmeal: Cornmeal gives the air-fryer cornbread its signature taste and texture. Use yellow cornmeal for a more pronounced corn flavor and golden color.
• Flour: All-purpose flour combines with the cornmeal to create a light and tender crumb.
• Sugar: Sugar adds a touch of sweetness to complement the corn flavor.
• Baking powder: Baking powder helps the cornbread rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Salt helps to enhance all the flavors in this air-fryer cornbread recipe.
• Buttermilk: A cup of buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture to the cornbread. If you’re out, use a buttermilk substitute for this recipe.
• Oil: Canola oil adds moisture and helps create a tender texture. For a richer cornbread, use melted butter instead.
• Egg: A large beaten egg binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the cornbread.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients

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Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

Step 2: Combine the wet ingredients

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In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil and beaten egg. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.

Editor’s Tip: Make sure the egg is at room temperature for even baking.

Step 3: Prepare the pan

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Grease an 8-inch round cake pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Air-fry the cornbread

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Place the pan in the air-fryer basket and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and serve

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Remove the pan from the air fryer basket and let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing.

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Air-Fryer Cornbread Variations

• Add some cheese: Stir 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack into the batter for a cheesy twist.
• Kick up the heat: Add one to two finely chopped jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
• Make it sweet: Add two tablespoons of honey or maple syrup for a sweeter version of this air-fryer cornbread.
• Add fruit: Transform this air-fryer cornbread into a sweet treat by adding blueberries or apples for an apple cornbread crisp.
• Turn it into stuffing: Instead of freezing leftovers for later, turn them into a fresh batch of cornbread stuffing.

How to Store Air-Fryer Cornbread

Allow the cornbread to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable storage bag. Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to five days.

Can you freeze air-fryer cornbread?

Yes, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, unwrapped, in the air fryer at 300° for three to five minutes.

Can you make air-fryer cornbread ahead of time?

For the freshest taste, air-fry the cornbread just before serving. However, you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply add the wet ingredients and air-fry.

Air-Fryer Cornbread Tips

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How do you keep air-fryer cornbread from drying out?

Not overbaking the cornbread is key to a moist and tender loaf. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early as air fryer cooking times can vary depending on your make and model. You can also add 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter. Not only does this add richness to the finished cornbread, but it helps keep the dough tender.

How do you know when air-fryer cornbread is done?

Your air-fryer cornbread is done when the top has a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

How do you prevent air-fryer cornbread from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease the pan with nonstick cooking spray or butter. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.

What’s the best way to serve air-fryer cornbread?

Serve this air-fryer cornbread warm with a side of slow-cooker chili or any hearty stew. For a special sweet treat, spread butter on a warm slice of cornbread and drizzle with honey before serving.