Cornbread cake is like a warm hug on a plate, the kind that wraps you up in its buttery goodness and whispers sweet nothings of nostalgia. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice that’s perfectly moist, with a golden crust that crumbles just enough to leave you wanting more. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, mingling with memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday brunches, where every bite feels like a celebration of home.

Every time I whip up this delightful cornbread cake, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She’d always say it’s not just food; it’s love! Perfect for potlucks or cozy evenings by the fire, this cake brings people together. Get ready to indulge in a flavor experience that will have your taste buds dancing and your heart singing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cornbread cake is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers
- Its sweet and savory flavor profile makes it irresistible to everyone at the table
- The visually appealing golden color brightens any meal and is perfect for festive occasions
- Enjoy it as a side dish for barbecues or as a delightful dessert on its own
I vividly remember the first time I served this cornbread cake at a family reunion. The smiles on everyone’s faces were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better texture; it helps create that perfect crumb.
-
Cornmeal: Opt for yellow cornmeal for that beautiful golden hue and slightly gritty texture.
-
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; adjust based on how sweet you like your cornbread cake.
-
Baking Powder: Always check the expiration date; fresh baking powder ensures your cake rises beautifully.
-
Salt: Just a pinch helps enhance all the flavors; don’t skip out on this one!
-
Milk: Whole milk gives richness; feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk if preferred.
-
Eggs: Use large eggs, as they bind everything together and add moisture.
-
Butter: Melted butter brings richness; definitely use unsalted to control overall saltiness.
-
Honey or Maple Syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup into the batter.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients. A well-heated oven ensures even baking and that golden crust we all love.
Prepare the baking dish: Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial for easy removal once baked.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients until they’re fully incorporated and cheerful—this mixture has high hopes!
Add wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients slowly while stirring gently to avoid lumps.
Fold gently: Using a spatula, fold the batter carefully until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix—those little pockets of air are what make your cake fluffy!
Pour into pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with an offset spatula. Visualize that glorious rise waiting to happen!
Bake away: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. To test if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s party time!
Cool down: Allow your cornbread cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool prevents sogginess—you wouldn’t want that!
Slice & serve: Once cooled slightly, slice into squares or triangles as desired. Serve warm with butter or drizzle more honey on top for extra indulgence.
Now you have a delectable cornbread cake ready to impress! Enjoy each bite as if it’s made from pure gold because let me tell you—it truly feels like treasure!
You Must Know
- Cornbread cake is not just a dessert; it can be a delightful breakfast treat too
- The aroma of buttery sweetness fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Perfectly moist with a hint of crunch, it pairs beautifully with coffee or tea any time of day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix the batter. Grease your baking dish before combining the dry and wet ingredients for smoother results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add fresh corn kernels or jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also swap regular milk for buttermilk for an extra tangy flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm it in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a better texture and rise
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep that delightful crumb
- Always check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted in the center
The first time I made cornbread cake, my friend declared it “life-changing.” It was the perfect blend of sweet and savory, sparking a series of brunch invitations that still haven’t ended!
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free flour for cornbread cake?
Absolutely! Gluten-free flour works well; just ensure it’s a one-to-one substitute.
What can I serve with cornbread cake?
Pair it with honey butter or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
How do I tell if my cornbread cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Cornbread Cake
Cornbread cake is a warm, buttery delight that evokes nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cozy brunches. This easy-to-make recipe results in a moist cake with a golden crust, perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to a sweet dessert at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently to avoid lumps.
- Fold the batter until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Leave a Comment