Vegan Cornbread Muffins Recipe Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious

If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that’s not only delicious but also entirely plant-based, this vegan cornbread muffins recipe is just what you need. Cornbread muffins are a beloved classic in many kitchens across the world, known for their slightly sweet, crumbly texture and golden crust.

The best part? These vegan versions retain all that wonderful flavor and moisture without using any animal products, making them perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to try a healthier alternative.

Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew, enjoying them as a quick snack, or packing them for a picnic, these muffins are simple to make and incredibly versatile. Packed with wholesome ingredients like cornmeal and plant-based milk, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory with a tender crumb.

Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes!

Read on to discover why this recipe is a must-try, all the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, and step-by-step instructions to bake your perfect batch of vegan cornbread muffins. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cornbread muffins recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses common pantry staples that you likely already have on hand, making it super convenient.

Second, the recipe is incredibly forgiving—perfect for beginner bakers or those new to vegan cooking.

Moist and fluffy without any eggs or dairy, these muffins manage to capture the classic cornbread texture with a slight crumbly exterior and soft interior. The subtle sweetness from maple syrup or agave balances perfectly with the cornmeal’s natural flavor, making these muffins a crowd-pleaser.

Additionally, this recipe is entirely plant-based, cholesterol-free, and can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets by swapping all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or meal prep, these cornbread muffins will quickly become a staple in your recipe book.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/4 cup organic sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• Optional: 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Muffin tin (12-cup)
• Muffin liners or non-stick spray
• Cooling rack
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly combined to avoid clumps.
3. In a separate medium bowl, mix the wet ingredients: almond milk, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Whisk until fully blended.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
5. If using, fold in the corn kernels and/or jalapeños carefully for added texture and flavor.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with your favorite vegan butter or jam!

Tips & Variations

For extra moist muffins, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.

Feel free to customize these muffins to your liking. Adding fresh or frozen corn kernels adds delightful bursts of sweetness, while diced jalapeños bring a spicy twist.

You can also mix in vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a savory version.

For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help with texture.

If you want to make mini cornbread muffins, simply reduce the baking time to around 12-15 minutes and check for doneness early.

Storing these muffins is easy — keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan cornbread muffins are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a bowl of hearty chili or your favorite vegetable stew for a comforting meal.

You can also enjoy them with a smear of vegan butter and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or snack.

For a Southern-inspired twist, try pairing your muffins with vegan fried “chicken” or barbecue jackfruit. They also work well as a side for Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners, adding that lovely corn flavor to your plate.

Looking to explore more vegan baked goods? Check out this Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat, or try your hand at bread making with the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

Making vegan cornbread muffins from scratch is simpler than you might think, and the results are pure comfort on a plate. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a tender, moist texture that everyone will love.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or looking for a reliable recipe to add to your collection, these muffins are a fantastic choice.

Not only do they make a delicious side dish or snack, but they also showcase how easy and delicious plant-based baking can be. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of warm, golden vegan cornbread muffins that will bring joy to your table and smiles to your loved ones.

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