Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe

In the realm of comfort food, few things compare to the warm, golden goodness of cornbread. While a store-bought box of jiffy corn muffin mix offers the convenience of using the easy jiffy cornbread recipe off the box, there’s something special about creating your homemade version of the Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe. In this blog post, we’ll explore the process of making a homemade Jiffy cornbread mix from scratch and discover the delicious creations you can make with it.

Cornbread muffin mix

What are the ingredients in the Jiffy mix?

The Jiffy brand has been around since the 1930s. It is something I grew up on. It was always a pantry essential in my grandmother’s house. Jiffy got its name from being a quick and easy recipe to throw together and make. It’s very different from traditional southern cornbread which a lot of people may be used to it.  It’s a tender cornbread with a sweet flavor and fantastic moisture.

So what is in a box of jiffy cornbread mix? While it makes the best cornbread recipe, it has a lot of unnecessary ingredients. 

According to the back of the box, the Ingredients are: WHEAT FLOUR, DEGERMED YELLOW CORN MEAL, SUGAR, LARD (HYDROGENATED LARD, BHT, AND CITRIC ACID PRESERVATIVES), CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF: BAKING SODA, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE, MONOCALCIUM PHOSPHATE, SALT, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID, WHEAT STARCH.

Jiffy Cornbread Recipe Ingredients

Crafting your own Jiffy cornbread mix from scratch is surprisingly simple and rewarding with basic ingredients. The dry mix typically includes real ingredients like flour, yellow cornmeal (the key ingredient), sugar, baking powder for a leavening agent, and salt. To replicate this at home, gather these dry ingredients and thoroughly combine them to make a homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flour: Essential for binding, all-purpose flour is ideal. Whole wheat flour is best avoided for this mix.

Yellow cornmeal: A must for that classic texture; different brands can yield varying hues. Cornmeal is made from ground corn. White cornmeal works too! If you want more of a cornmeal flavor you can lesson the flour or add more cornmeal. Just stay within your ratios.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to satisfy cornbread enthusiasts.Baking powder: Vital for leavening and achieving the perfect grainy texture.

Salt: Balances flavors; fine sea salt is my preference.

For those interested in nutritional information, details regarding calories, carbohydrates, protein, and other contents can inform ingredient choices and portions.

You can simply mix all of these ingredients and store them in an airtight container.

Jiffy cornbread muffin

How to make Jiffy Corn Muffins

To prepare delicious Jiffy style Corn Muffins, gather all the necessary ingredients and preheat the oven to the specified temperature. Using the homemade Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix as a base, the process becomes a breeze. This easy recipe guarantees a moist texture that will leave you craving more. 

Keep in mind, this homemade mix contains only the dry ingredients. Follow the steps below to prepare the actual cornbread:

  1. Create the Corn Muffin Batter: Mix dry mixture with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted butter, 1/3 cup milk, and 1 egg until well combined. For chunkier muffins, reduce milk to 1/4 cup.
  2. Fill the liners or Silicone pans: Line your muffin pans with muffin liners. Spoon the batter into 6 lined muffin tins or silicone pans and bake. If the tops begin to brown too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Or use loaf pans: Divide the batter between two ceramic loaf pans coated with non-stick spray. I prefer using a coconut oil spray.
  4. Bake: Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Mix 2

Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe

Yield: 6 muffins
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Keep this homade copycat Jiffy cornbread mix in your pantry to whip up some wuick cornbread or muffins.

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

    Combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Store in an airtight plastic container. Use to prepare muffins or bread as stated above in our post.

Nutrition Information
Yield 6 Serving Size 1
Amount Per Serving Calories 113Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 336mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 1gSugar 6gProtein 2g

Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.

Did you make this recipe?

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Customizing Your Corn Muffins

When customizing a copycat jiffy corn muffin mix , additions such as cheddar cheese, corn, jalapeños, etc.  can create unique flavors in your cornbread. The Jiffy Cornbread Mix offers a versatile base extra ingredients for customization, allowing for endless recipe variations. The beauty of this copycat recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether classic or creative, tailor your corn meal muffin recipe to your preferences for a moist, flavorful cornbread. If you haven’t tried jalapeno cornbread yet, you are missing out.

Grease muffin tins with vegetable oil or rub a stick of butter on the bottom before pouring in the homemade mix. Once you’ve got your muffin tin loaded, pop them in the oven at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes and wait for the irresistible aroma to fill your kitchen. As a result, be mindful of the baking time and temperature, over-baking can result in dry cornbread and loss of cornmeal flavor. These Jiffy cornbread muffins are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Here are a few ways to use the customizations we mentioned above:

  1. Give it some tang:  Swap out the milk for buttermilk or half and half for richer bread with a tang.
  2. Sour cream: A southern staple and classic, add a dollop on top of your slice.
  3. Plain greek yogurt: This can be whipped into the actual batter for a creamier bread or dolloped on top just like sour cream. Add 1-2 tablespoons to the batter.
  4. Cheese it up: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese or other favorite cheese to the batter. If doubling for bread, add 1 cup. You can also sprinkle cheese directly on top of the muffins or bread.
  5. Add whole corn: Add 1/2 cup of sweet corn kernels to the batter for sweeter cornbread with little pops of freshness. Canned corn, frozen corn (thawed) or fresh corn works, just make sure it is drained and blotted dry to not add more moisture to the batter. Try roasted or grilled corn for even more depth of flavor.
  6. Everything’s better with Bacon: Nothings pairs better than chewy, salty little bits of bacon. Use 1/2 cup in the batter to jazz it up.
  7. Sweeten with Syrup: Looking for a sweet cornbread? Try adding 1-2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, honey or agave nectar to the batter. You can also drizzle or baste this on top after it comes out of the oven. Kind of like a simple syrup basting onto butter cake. For sweet and spicy, try hot honey.
  8. Scallions: Add fresh oniony flavor will 2 tablespoons of chopped scallions right in the mix.
  9. Spicy: Try adding 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh jalapenos or jarred jalapenos. Other types of peppers that rank lower on the scoville scale work too. Think poblano, habanero or ghost peppers if you really want to sweat. Swap out 2 tablespoons of milk for the juice in a jar of jalapenos.
  10. Fruit: Yep- no one ever thinks of adding fruit, but it tastes fantastic! Apples and peaches are my favorites, add 1/4-1/2 cup of finely chopped fruit to the batter. For peaches, try to drain out as much of the liquid as possible.
  11. Green chiles: A little Tex-Mex style cornbread is fantastic too. Add 2-3 tablespoons of chopped green chiles. If using from a can, drain well.
  12. Bell Pepper: Fresh bell pepper or roasted red pepper are options.
  13. Olives:  Chop up 1 tablespoon of olives for a briny bread.
  14. Chile powder:  Add 1 teaspoon of ancho chile powder or any other type, or a blend like chili powder to the batter. Dust on top for fun presentation.
  15. Pickles: For those pickle lovers out there, add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped pickles and swap 2 tablespoons of milk for pickle juice.
  16. Ranch Style: Add one packet of dry ranch seasoning.
  17. Baste: While the muffins are still hot, baste with maple butter, molasses butter or honey butter.
  18. Flavored Butters: Swap out the basic butter for compound butter for a wide array of savory options. These can also be served on the side.
  19. Make it a Meal: Top a slice with a scoop of marinara sauce or Serve it with Chili
  20. Salsa: Add 1/4 cup of chunky salsa to the batter or spoon on top before serving.
  21. Fresh Herbs: Chop up a few from the garden and add them in! Sage, thyme, rosemary, dill, cilantro and parsley all work.
cornbread

How to make Jiffy Corn Bread

If you are a more traditional cornbread person, remember that boxed mix is rather small so it’s only going to make a small pan of cornbread so I recommend doubling the batch.

  1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease an 8×8 baking dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
  2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter, 1/3 cup milk, and 2 eggs with double the amount of this recipe (or two boxes of Jiffy cornbread muffin mix). Mix until no dry spots remain; the mixture may be slightly lumpy, so avoid overmixing.
  3. Baking: Bake for 18 to 23 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Let Cool: Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

You can also make cornbread in a slow cooker but I prefer the old fashion way because I love the texture.

Customizing Your Jiffy Corn Bread

 Adding bell peppers, scallions, olives, chili powder, pickles, bacon, ranch seasoning and other herbs,  can create unique flavors in your cornbread. Using a cast iron skillet  to make skillet cornbread or baking pan can enhance the texture and flavors of your final product. Experimenting with Jiffy Cornbread Mix opens up a world of possibilities for crafting delightful cornbread creations. 

Make new recipes by incorporating your Jiffy mixes into gluten-free recipes for those with dietary restrictions. Adding Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour blend when preparing the mix for a gluten-free version of the classic recipe. When experimenting with a gluten-free recipe or adding ingredients like sour cream to your copycat Jiffy cornbread mix, look for alternatives that will help your family enjoy these recipes. using a cast iron skillet or baking pan can enhance the texture and flavors of your final product.

How Can I Enhance My Homemade Jiffy Mix?

Enhancing your Jiffy mix opens up endless possibilities to your home cooks. You can incorporate additional ingredients like shredded cheese, corn kernels, diced jalapenos, cooked bacon, or chopped green onions to add depth and complexity to the flavor. If you prefer sweeter cornbread, mix in honey, maple syrup, or sugar. To ensure moistness and a wonderful rich tang, consider adding sour cream, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or creamed corn. Experiment with spices, herbs, nuts, seeds, and fruits to create unique variations tailored to your preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different combinations. 

What is a Good Milk Substitute for Jiffy?

Dairy alternatives: If you’re looking to make the cornbread dairy-free, you can substitute milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, and butter with vegan butter or vegetable oil.

Sometimes, swapping out regular milk with almond milk or oat milk can be a suitable alternative for Jiffy cornbread mix. When I follow Jessica Formicola’s homemade Jiffy copycat recipe from Savory Experiments, I often customize it by using almond milk instead of regular milk. This substitution works well and still yields a moist and delicious cornbread. Almond milk adds a subtle nuttiness to the mix, enhancing the overall flavor profile. 

Oat milk is another excellent option that I’ve tried, providing a slightly creamier texture to the cornbread. These milk substitutes blend seamlessly with dry ingredients like flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt, along with wet ingredients like oil and butter. Experimenting with them can give your Jiffy cornbread a unique twist while staying true to the original recipe.

Cornbread muffin mix spoon

Other Uses for Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe

Homemade cornbread mix is a versatile addition to quick bread recipes, offering a delicious base for various baked goods. Get creative by making cornbread waffles with your waffle iron. Having them with fried chicken and maple syrup as a sweet side on a classic dish. Combine your cornbread mix with some milk and eggs to create a batter for fluffy cornbread pancakes. 

Serve them with butter and syrup for a breakfast treat. Use crumbled cornbread in place of traditional bread cubes in your favorite stuffing recipe. The slight hint of sweetness of the dry cornbread adds a unique dimension to this holiday favorite.

Still, another use is cubing small square pieces of leftover cornbread and toast them in the oven in a square pan until crispy to make delicious croutons for salads or soups. 

A World of Possibilities Using Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe

Corn spoon bread is a fun takeoff on Jiffy’s well known corn casserole. It usually includes an additional egg, imparting a creamy, almost souffle-like texture. Corn souffle as the perfect side dish is similar to corn pudding with the main difference being the texture. 

Basically, experimenting with Jiffy Cornbread Mix opens up a world of possibilities for crafting wonderful recipes. Experiment with new recipes by incorporating your Jiffy mixes into gluten-free recipes for those with dietary restrictions.

Adding Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour blend  when preparing the mix will give you a gluten-free version of the classic recipe. When experimenting with gluten-free recipes or adding ingredients like sour cream to your copycat Jiffy cornbread mix, take care to follow the directions. 

Storing Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe Mix

After exploring the versatility of Jiffy Cornbread Mix in creating various flavors, let’s now look at how to properly store Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix to maintain its freshness and quality.

For best results, store the copycat Jiffy Cornbread Mix in an airtight container so your prepared mix maintain its freshness. Keep it at room temperature in a dry place to preserve its quality.

Consider using a cast iron skillet or baking pan when preparing the mix for sweet cornbread recipes that might need additional moisture.

Properly storing your Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix guarantees that it remains ready for your next baking adventure. Placing it in an airtight container at room temperature helps sustain its freshness, while a dry place prevents moisture from affecting the mix. 

Homemade Jiffy Cornbread muffins

How to Store Leftover Cornbread

Storing leftover cornbread can help maintain its freshness and flavor for longer periods. To store homemade Jiffy cornbread or any leftover cornbread, make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Placing the wrapped cornbread in an airtight container or resealable bag can further protect it from drying out. For added moisture retention, consider adding a slice of bread or a damp paper towel inside the container. 

All in all, refrigerating leftover cornbread can extend its shelf life, lasting up to a week. To freeze leftover cornbread, wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen cornbread can be enjoyed for up to three months by thawing it overnight in the refrigerator or warming it in the oven. Proper storage ensures that your  remains just as delightful as when it first came out of the oven and placed on a wire rack.

What to serve with Homemade Jiffy Cornbread Copycat Recipe


Certainly, cornbread is a versatile classic, loved with chili on a brisk evening or alongside barbecue ribs at a summer cookout. Pair it with hearty chili or warm soup to complement its savory sweetness. Pairing these dishes creates a comforting and satisfying meal that warms the soul. Here are some other delightful options to contemplate:

Barbecue Ribs: Tender, smoky barbecue ribs pair perfectly with collard greens and sweet Jiffy cornbread.

Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken alongside Jiffy cornbread creates a delightful textural contrast. 

Honey Butter Vegetables: Roasted vegetables with honey butter complement moist cornbread with a touch of sweetness. You can even try our homemade brownies for dessert.

Whether classic or adventurous, Jiffy cornbread Mixes versatility offers endless possibilities for memorable meals.

Lastly, homemade Jiffy cornbread mix, it is a pantry staple that opens the door to a world of delicious possibilities.  From the classic cornbread recipe to creative variations like waffles and pancakes, there’s endless enjoyment with this versatile ingredient. Making your mix from scratch gives you control over ingredients.  Additionally, you will have the satisfaction of creating something delicious glorifying the cornmeal flavor from start to finish. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

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2 Comments

  1. Not usually a fan of corn bread but if it’s made I will definitely try it. This looks easy enough to try