If you’re looking for a cake that’s different from the usual flour-based recipes, this moist cornmeal cake will be a delightful surprise! The use of cornmeal gives the cake a wonderful texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for those who love a change from regular cakes. This recipe is simple, quick to make, and perfect for a cozy treat. Cornmeal cakes also add a bit of fiber to your dessert, making them a slightly healthier choice compared to traditional cakes. Whether you’re baking for yourself or preparing for guests, this cake will surely impress with its delicious taste and satisfying texture.
Total Time: 1 Hour 10 Minutes
Preparation Time: 20 Minutes
Baking Time: 40-50 Minutes
Serves: 12 Slices
Ingredients for Cornmeal Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups plain yogurt
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 packet vanilla sugar)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Tips for the Best Cornmeal Cake
Mixing the Batter: Start by whisking the eggs and sugar together for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a soft and airy texture in the cake. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for better results.
Consistency of the Batter: After adding the yogurt and vegetable oil, and mixing in the dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and vanilla), check the consistency of the batter. It should be thick but pourable. If the batter feels too runny, you can add a little more flour until it reaches the right thickness.
Perfect Baking Time: Bake the cake at 340°F (170°C) for around 40-50 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so make sure to check the cake with a toothpick toward the end. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done.
How to Make Cornmeal Cake
- Prepare Your Cake Pan: Grease and lightly flour an 8-9 inch round cake pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake once it’s baked.
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together for about 5 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, forming the base for a soft, airy cake texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Once the eggs and sugar are combined, add the yogurt and vegetable oil to the bowl. Continue to whisk until everything is smooth and well-blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to over-mix. Once the dry ingredients are incorporated, stop mixing to keep the batter light.
- Pour the Batter into the Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan. Smooth the top using a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 340°F (170°C). Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Optionally, dust the cake with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cornmeal Cake
- Check the Cake Early: Cornmeal cakes may brown faster than other cakes, so check the cake around 35 minutes of baking. If the top is becoming too dark, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor: Feel free to customize your cake by adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or citrus zest for added texture and flavor. Walnuts, raisins, or cranberries can bring a lovely twist to this cake.
Serving Suggestions for Cornmeal Cake
Once cooled, this cornmeal cake can be served on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. The slightly crumbly texture and sweet flavor of this cake also make it an excellent addition to a dessert table.
Customizing Your Cornmeal Cake
If you’re looking to put your personal touch on this recipe, feel free to make small adjustments to the ingredients. Add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or citrus zest for a unique twist. You can also experiment with a glaze or drizzle, such as a simple lemon glaze or a chocolate drizzle, to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste! You can add or remove certain ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.