If you crave a treat that captures the very soul of Southern comfort with a touch of indulgent sweetness, Cornbread Cake deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire. This irresistible bake combines the rustic charm of classic cornbread with the moist, cake-like crumb you’d expect from a beloved dessert, all without losing its golden, sunshiny appeal. It’s perfectly sweet, delightfully tender, and ready to make any meal—whether breakfast, brunch, or dessert—a truly special occasion. Whether you’re new to this Southern gem or a longtime fan, get ready to fall in love with every bite of Cornbread Cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cornbread Cake comes from a handful of honest, easy-to-find staples, each playing a unique role in creating the ultimate texture and flavor. Don’t skip or substitute unless you need to—these ingredients are the secret behind that signature golden color, rich taste, and melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Cornmeal: This is the heart of Cornbread Cake, giving it its gritty, rustic character and beautiful yellow hue.
- All-purpose flour: Balances out the texture for a lighter, cake-like crumb that’s not too dense.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps create that signature tender bite.
- Baking powder: The key to a lofty, fluffy Cornbread Cake—don’t leave it out!
- Salt: Just a touch enhances all of the other flavors without making the cake taste salty.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and ensure a rich, cohesive batter.
- Whole milk: Keeps the crumb moist while also adding a subtle dairy richness.
- Unsalted butter, melted: For an ultra-tender and flavorful cake, butter is essential—make sure it’s cooled a bit before mixing it in.
- Vanilla extract: A splash heightens the sweetness and rounds out the comforting flavor profile.
How to Make Cornbread Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Preheat
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up, and take a moment to grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment. This simple step ensures your Cornbread Cake releases easily and retains its classic golden edges—a detail that’s definitely worth the little extra effort.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until the mixture looks even and fluffy. This sets the stage for a Cornbread Cake with a harmoniously balanced flavor and perfect crumb.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a second bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, cooled melted butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined—you want the butter fully incorporated so the cake bakes up moist and consistent throughout.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl, stirring gently just until combined. Don’t overmix: a few visible streaks of flour are okay. This trick prevents your Cornbread Cake from turning out tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared dish. Pop it in the oven for 30–35 minutes, until the top glows golden and a toothpick in the center comes out clean. The irresistible smell will let you know it’s nearly ready! Let it cool for about 10 minutes—this makes slicing a breeze and gives the flavors time to settle.
How to Serve Cornbread Cake
Garnishes
For the prettiest presentation (and a little flavor flair), try a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar over each slice of Cornbread Cake. Whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a pat of softened butter can take things up a notch, transforming an everyday treat into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
Cornbread Cake loves good company! Serve it alongside a steaming bowl of chili for the ultimate sweet-and-savory moment, or pair it with a fresh fruit salad and a cup of coffee at brunch. This cake also makes a fabulous dessert next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by cutting Cornbread Cake into fun shapes with cookie cutters, or layer cubes of it in a dessert trifle glass with lemon curd and berries for a playful twist. You can even split slices and fill with sweetened cream cheese for a deliciously different sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have Cornbread Cake left over, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, keep it refrigerated—this maintains its soft texture and prevents it from drying out.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Cornbread Cake can be frozen for up to two months, making it an easy treat to have on hand when cravings strike.
Reheating
To enjoy Cornbread Cake warm, simply microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds or heat it in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes until just heated through. This brings back the fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture you love.
FAQs
Can I make Cornbread Cake with gluten-free flour?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Look for one that’s a cup-for-cup replacement to keep the texture light and fluffy. Just be aware that some blends may change the finished flavor slightly.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap in your favorite plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and replace the butter with a dairy-free baking spread or coconut oil. The results are still tender and delicious!
Can I make Cornbread Cake in advance?
Definitely. You can bake Cornbread Cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or parties.
How can I add more flavor?
Try folding in a handful of fresh or frozen corn kernels, diced jalapeño, or a touch of orange zest to customize your Cornbread Cake. These fun add-ins boost flavor and add personality to every batch.
Why is my Cornbread Cake dry or crumbly?
Overbaking or overmixing the batter are the most common culprits. Make sure to pull the cake from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean, and be gentle when folding the ingredients together. Moisture-rich add-ins like corn kernels also help keep slices tender.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to share this Cornbread Cake at your next gathering or quiet weeknight at home. There’s just something magical about this Southern classic that never fails to please, and every bite is a little celebration of comfort and joy. Try it soon—you’ll see why this is a recipe worth keeping in your baking rotation!
Print
Cornbread Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of this Cornbread Cake, a Southern-inspired dessert that combines the beloved flavors of traditional cornbread with a cake-like texture. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make treat will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a richer texture, substitute buttermilk for regular milk.
- You can also fold in a handful of corn kernels or chopped jalapeños for added flavor.
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