The moment you take a bite of cornbread cake, your taste buds will dance the cha-cha! Imagine a warm slice, golden-brown and slightly crumbly, with a sweet aroma wafting through the air. This delightful treat is not just your average cornbread; it’s a cake that combines the comforting flavors of cornmeal with a hint of sweetness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s served as a side at dinner or as a standalone dessert, this cornbread cake promises to elevate any occasion.
Remember those family gatherings where the dessert table looked like Willy Wonka’s factory exploded? Ah, the nostalgia! I vividly recall my grandmother whipping up her famous cornbread cake, and we all eagerly gathered around the kitchen table, waiting for that first slice to cool. The laughter, stories, and mouth-watering aroma created memories that lingered long after the last crumb was devoured. This cake is perfect for cozy evenings with friends or festive celebrations where everyone gathers to share good food and great company.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cornbread cake is incredibly simple to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers
- The sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with various toppings like butter or honey
- Its beautiful golden color makes it an eye-catching addition to any meal
- Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or alongside savory dishes for maximum versatility
As I recall those cherished moments in my grandmother’s kitchen, I remember how everyone would rave about her cornbread cake’s moistness and texture.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cornmeal: Use finely ground cornmeal for a smooth texture that creates a perfect base for the cake.
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All-Purpose Flour: This helps balance the density of the cornmeal and gives structure to your cake.
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Sugar: A touch of sugar brightens the flavors and adds sweetness without overpowering.
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Baking Powder: Ensure your cake rises beautifully; fresh baking powder is key!
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all other flavors—don’t skip this step!
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Milk: Whole milk adds richness; you can substitute almond milk if dairy-free.
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Eggs: Help bind everything together while also providing moisture.
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Butter: Melted butter infuses the cake with flavor and contributes to its moist texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. The mix should look like sandy beach grains—simple yet essential!
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk and melted butter along with eggs into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing since nobody wants tough cornbread!
Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer your batter into the prepared baking dish carefully. Smooth out the top with a spatula for even baking; nobody likes uneven slices!
Bake Away: Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Let it Cool: Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring onto a wire rack. The aroma will be hard to resist; perhaps grab a quick bite while it’s still warm!
Now you’re ready to indulge in this delightful cornbread cake! It’s perfect alone or topped with butter or honey—your choice!
You Must Know
- Cornbread cake is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for any occasion
- Its fluffy texture and golden crust make it irresistible
- Serve warm with butter or enjoy it as a dessert topped with honey or jam
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven; this ensures an even bake. Mix dry ingredients first, then blend in wet ones for a smooth batter. Pour into a greased pan and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cornmeal for polenta or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also mix in cheese or herbs to elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store cornbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warm, about 10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cornbread cake rises perfectly, always use fresh baking powder
- Let it cool slightly before slicing for cleaner edges
- Consider using buttermilk instead of milk for extra tenderness and flavor
Sharing my first experience making cornbread cake was magical—everyone praised my creation, and I felt like a culinary wizard that day!
FAQ
What is the difference between cornbread and cornbread cake?
Cornbread is typically savory while cornbread cake leans toward sweetness and has a lighter texture.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free cornbread cake without compromising taste.
How do I know when the cornbread cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cornbread cake is ready!
Cornbread Cake
Cornbread cake is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of cornmeal with a hint of sweetness, perfect for any occasion. Its warm, golden-brown crust and moist texture make it an irresistible treat, whether enjoyed as breakfast, a side dish, or a stand-alone dessert. This easy-to-make recipe is versatile and can be elevated with your favorite toppings like butter or honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 9 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely ground cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
