The 75-Cent Dollar Tree Find I Only Wish I’d Found Sooner

Growing up in Canada, Jiffy cornbread and muffin mix wasn’t a huge part of my culture. That’s not to say I didn’t grow up eating my fair share of cornbread. I have many fond memories of eating my grandma’s cornbread over the years, and when I started cooking for myself, there wasn’t a single chili night that went without the beloved side.

So, while I’m no cornbread expert, I have some firmly-held beliefs about how this Southern staple should taste: not too sweet, with plenty of grit, and with a tender crumb and a crispy exterior.

After reading this article about the best cornbread mix I knew I had to get my hands on some Jiffy recommended by Simply Recipes’ food editors. After all, the humble boxed mix won over the hearts (and stomachs) of some of the top food experts in the country.

I was delighted to find Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix for only 75 cents at the Dollar Tree. And after testing it out myself, I can confirm–it’s an absolute gem. Now I only wish I’d started buying it sooner!

Why I (Also) Love Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

A box of Jiffy is an absolute workhorse in the kitchen. The cornmeal-based formula gives me perfectly tender, lightly sweet muffins every time. And the convenience factor is unbeatable. There’s no measuring or fuss. I just have to add milk and an egg, and I’ve got fresh homemade cornbread or muffins in no time.

The brand has been around since 1930, and I’ve read that it doesn’t spend money on advertising because it has such great street cred. I’ve not verified that, but the fact that it is still considered “the best” after 94 years in the 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’ve also bought several boxes and meal-prepped 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 subbed the milk for kefir for a bit of tang. I also made standard-size and mini muffins with the batters; every version turned out great. But Jiffy’s versatility really shines when you start thinking outside the box (pardon the pun). I’m a big fan of cornmeal pancakes, so I couldn’t resist trying this recipe. And yes, the pancakes are just as dreamy as they sound–crispy-edged, light and fluffy, and perfect with a swipe of salted butter and a drizzle of maple syrup. 

I’ve earmarked my extra boxes to use as a crispy coating for my baked “fried” chicken, to make into dumplings, or as a crunchy topping for chili, soups, and stews. I also plan to turn one box into a stone fruit cake before the peaches are gone. I’m discovering that there’s a lot you can do with a box of Jiffy! 

It also serves as a reminder to listen to those food editors when they make recommendations. Perfect as an easy side dish, a quick snack, or a versatile textural ingredient to have on hand, a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix is now an absolute pantry must-have. And at just 75 cents a box at the Dollar Tree, it’s one of the best values you’ll find.