They have been around for over 90 years!

Growing up in Canada, Jiffy cornbread and muffin mix weren’t a big part of my culture. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t eat a lot of cornbread as a kid. I have many fond memories of eating my grandmother’s cornbread over the years, and when I started cooking for myself, there wasn’t a single chili night that didn’t include this popular side dish.

Although I’m no cornbread expert, I have a strong idea of ​​what this Southern staple should taste like: not too sweet, with plenty of graininess, and a tender crumb and crispy exterior.

After reading this article about the best cornbread mix, I knew I had to get the Jiffy recommended by the food editors at Simply Recipes. After all, the humble pre-made mix has won the hearts (and stomachs) of some of the country’s top food experts.

I was pleased to find Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix for only 75 cents at Dollar Tree. And after testing it myself, I can confirm – it is an absolute gem. Now I only wish I had started buying it sooner!

Why I (also) love Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

A pack of Jiffy is an absolute workhorse in the kitchen. The cornmeal-based recipe makes for perfectly tender, slightly sweet muffins every time. And the convenience factor can’t be beat. There’s no measuring or fuss. All I have to do is add milk and an egg and I have fresh homemade cornbread or muffins in no time.

The brand has been around since 1930 and I read that they don’t spend money on advertising because they have such a good reputation. I haven’t checked this out, but the fact that they are still considered “the best” after 94 years in business speaks volumes about the product.

All the ways you can use Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

Classic cornbread or corn muffins are a must, of course, but I also bought several packages and prepared a variety of different muffins, including one with fresh corn kernels and sour cream, one with lemon zest and frozen blueberries, and one where I replaced the milk with kefir for a bit more tartness. I also made standard-sized muffins and mini muffins with the batter; each version turned out great. But the versatility of Jiffy really comes into its own when you start thinking outside the box (pardon the pun). I’m a huge fan of cornmeal pancakes, so I couldn’t resist trying this recipe. And yes, the pancakes are every bit as dreamy as they sound—crispy-edged, light and fluffy, and perfect with a dollop of salted butter and a drizzle of maple syrup.

I have reserved my leftover boxes as a crispy coating for my baked “fried” chicken, as dumplings, or as a crunchy topping for chili, soups, and stews. I also plan to use one box to make a stone fruit pie before the peaches run out. I’m discovering that you can do a lot with a box of Jiffy!

It also serves as a reminder to listen to food editors’ recommendations. Perfect as an easy side dish, a quick snack, or a versatile ingredient to keep on hand, a package of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix is ​​now an absolute pantry staple. And at just 75 cents per package at Dollar Tree, it’s one of the most inexpensive you’ll find.

Read the original article on Simply Recipes.