The warm aroma of cornbread cake wafts through the air, dancing with sweet notes of honey and buttery goodness. Each slice promises a delightful crumb that melts in your mouth, making any gathering feel like a cozy family reunion.
Every bite takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen, where laughter mingled with the sound of sizzling pans. Cornbread cake was our unofficial family mascot, gracing the table at every holiday and Sunday dinner, bringing everyone together for moments filled with love and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cornbread cake is remarkably easy to whip up, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
- The flavor profile balances sweetness and cornmeal texture beautifully
- Its golden hue is visually appealing, making it irresistible on any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an evening dessert!
I remember one family gathering when my cousin attempted to bake his own version. Let’s just say, we spent more time trying to save his cake from collapsing than actually eating it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cornmeal: Use medium or fine cornmeal for a light texture; avoid coarse varieties unless you’re going for crunch.
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All-Purpose Flour: This helps balance the density of the cornmeal; it’s essential for structure.
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Sugar: I recommend granulated sugar, but brown sugar can add a delightful caramel note.
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Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise; stale baking powder leads to sad cakes.
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Salt: A pinch enhances flavor; don’t skip it, or your cake might taste flat.
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Eggs: Bring them to room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
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Milk: Whole milk works best for richness but buttermilk adds tangy depth!
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Butter: Unsalted butter ensures you control the saltiness; melt it before mixing in for a smooth batter.
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Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): These add extra sweetness and flavor complexity; feel free to experiment!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. The mixture should look like yellow sand on a sunny beach.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs and then mix in melted butter and milk until smooth. The mixture should have a creamy consistency that makes you want to dive right in!
Combine Mixtures Gently: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cornbread cake—nobody wants that!
Add Sweetener (if using): If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in honey or maple syrup at this stage for an extra twist of flavor—trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour the batter into your prepared dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean—a sure sign of deliciousness!
Enjoy this cornbread cake warm from the oven, perhaps slathered with butter or served alongside chili or soup! It’s a delightful addition to any meal or simply as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show.
You Must Know
- Cornbread cake is a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, offering a sweet, moist texture that pairs perfectly with savory dishes
- This cake can be your go-to for potlucks or family gatherings
- Its aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, making it an instant crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, mix your dry ingredients separately before combining them with wet ones for smooth batter consistency. This ensures even baking and a tender crumb.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add ingredients like fresh corn kernels, jalapeños, or cheese for an exciting flavor boost. You could also swap out regular milk for buttermilk to enhance richness and moisture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warm, maintaining its soft texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect cornbread cake, always measure ingredients accurately and mix just until combined
- Avoid over-mixing to prevent dense texture
- Experiment with add-ins like spices to discover unique flavors that impress your guests
Sharing my first attempt at baking this cornbread cake was hilarious; it ended up being more of a cornbread pancake after I accidentally added too much liquid!
FAQ
What can I serve with cornbread cake?
Cornbread cake pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, or barbecued meats for a hearty meal.
Can I make cornbread cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
How long does cornbread cake last in the fridge?
Properly stored, cornbread cake can last about five days in the refrigerator without losing quality.
Cornbread Cake
Cornbread cake is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the sweet flavors of honey and buttery goodness. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, each slice delivers a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This easy recipe is suitable for bakers of all levels, making it an irresistible addition to any meal or dessert table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and mix in melted butter and milk until smooth.
- Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- If desired, add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
