Cornmeal cake, a staple in Southern kitchens, is a delightful treat that’s both comforting and delicious. With its slightly sweet, crumbly texture and golden-brown crust, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone at the table. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying dessert, look no further than this Southern classic. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful cornmeal cake that will have you reminiscing about grandma’s baking.
What is Cornmeal Cake?
This isn’t your typical fluffy cake. Cornmeal cake, also sometimes referred to as cornbread cake, has a texture that’s more dense and crumbly, similar to cornbread. The star ingredient, cornmeal, gives it a slightly grainy texture and a unique, earthy flavor. It’s often served warm with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to gather to get started on your cornmeal cake journey:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine cornmeal (not coarsely ground)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch and flavor)
Cornmeal Cake Ingredients
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for checking doneness)
Let’s Make the Cake!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This will ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for a consistent cake texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. The buttermilk adds a wonderful tanginess and moisture to the cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough cake.
Step 5: Add Nuts (Optional)
If you’re adding nuts, gently fold them into the batter. Pecans and walnuts pair beautifully with the flavor of cornmeal.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cornmeal Cake Baking
Tips for the Best Cornmeal Cake
- Use fine cornmeal: Coarse cornmeal can result in a gritty texture, so opt for fine cornmeal for a smoother crumb.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar to 1 1/4 cups.
- Get creative with toppings: While classic toppings like whipped cream and ice cream are delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment. Fresh berries, fruit compotes, or a drizzle of honey would also be lovely additions.
FAQs About Making Cornmeal Cake
Q: Can I substitute the buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can make your own buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
Q: How should I store leftover cornmeal cake?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Baking a cornmeal cake is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a warm and comforting dessert that will have you coming back for seconds. For other delicious cornmeal recipes, check out our guides on how to make polenta cake and how to make corn cakes. Now, it’s your turn to try this Southern classic!
Cornmeal Cake Slice
