Cornbread cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that dances on your tongue. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm slice, the buttery aroma enveloping you in a comforting embrace, while the sweet notes make you feel like you’ve been transported to grandma’s kitchen on a cozy Sunday afternoon.

Growing up, cornbread cake was a staple at family gatherings—a dish that brought smiles and happy chatter around the table. It was always the first thing to disappear, leaving behind only crumbs and happy memories. Whether served alongside chili or as a sweet treat after dinner, this cake never failed to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cornbread cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion
- The sweet and savory blend creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Its golden-brown exterior is visually stunning and will catch everyone’s eye on the dessert table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast or dessert!
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin tried to sneak an extra slice before dinner. Let’s just say we all laughed when he got caught!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cornmeal: Use finely ground cornmeal for the best texture; it makes the cake delightfully moist and crumbly.
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All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure; feel free to substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; consider brown sugar for a richer flavor profile.
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Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising; check expiration dates often.
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Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; you can use buttermilk for added tanginess.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over salt levels; melting it enhances flavor absorption.
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Eggs: These bind everything together; opt for large eggs for consistent results.
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Corn Kernels (optional): Fresh or frozen corn adds delightful bursts of sweetness throughout the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First things first: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter for easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Incorporate Corn Kernels (if using): Fold in fresh or frozen corn kernels gently into the batter. This step adds an exciting texture that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer your mixture into the greased baking pan and spread it out evenly. Admire that golden batter—it’s like sunshine waiting to bake!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma of sweet cornbread will fill your kitchen—get ready!
Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing into squares—this will help maintain its structure. Serve warm with butter melting atop each piece or enjoy plain—the choice is yours!
Now you’ve made cornbread cake! Enjoy every bite and share your masterpiece with friends and family—after all, what’s better than spreading joy through food?
You Must Know
- Cornbread cake is a delightful treat that perfectly marries sweetness with that classic cornbread flavor
- It’s an excellent base for toppings like honey or fruit preserves, making it versatile and perfect for any occasion
- Plus, the golden crust adds a lovely crunch that everyone loves
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while mixing your batter; this ensures even baking. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporating blueberries for a sweet twist. You can also swap regular milk with buttermilk for extra richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy cornbread cake, don’t overmix the batter; lumps are okay!
- Letting it rest before baking allows flavors to develop
- Always check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious smells filled the air, and everyone fought over the last slice.
FAQ
What can I serve with cornbread cake?
Cornbread cake pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or as a side to barbecue dishes.
Can I make cornbread cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just store it properly to maintain freshness.
How do I know when my cornbread cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Irresistible Cornbread Cake
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this delightful cornbread cake. Its golden-brown crust and moist, tender interior make it an ideal treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re savoring it warm with a pat of butter or sharing slices at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
- 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 finely ground cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
- If using, fold in corn kernels gently into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg