Name: Strawberry Cornmeal Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted); 2 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Honey; 1/2 cup Buttermilk; 2 teaspoons Lemon Zest; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 2 Eggs; 1 1/2 cups Bobs Red Mill All-Purpose Flour; 3/4 cup Bobs Red Mill Stone Ground Cornmeal; 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (halved); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar; 2-4 tablespoons Buttermilk

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Every bite of Strawberry Cornmeal Cake takes me back to sunny afternoons in the garden, where ripe strawberries gleamed like jewels against the backdrop of green leaves. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia for me. I remember picking strawberries with my family, laughter echoing as we filled our baskets. When I started baking, I wanted to capture that essence, and this cake does it beautifully. The combination of sweet strawberries and the earthy notes of cornmeal creates a harmony that’s both comforting and exciting. The buttermilk glaze adds a touch of creaminess that pulls everything together, making it irresistibly delicious. Whether I’m serving it for a casual afternoon tea or a special celebration, it never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

What I love about this Strawberry Cornmeal Cake is its versatility. It’s beautiful enough to grace a festive table yet simple enough to whip up on a whim. The ingredients are straightforward, and the process is fun. You can even get your kids involved, turning baking into a family activity filled with joy and learning. Each time I make this cake, it feels like an occasion, a reason to gather loved ones around the table. And the taste? Oh, it’s pure bliss. There’s something magical about the way the strawberries burst with flavor in every bite. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this cake as I do.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

The Magic of This Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

It’s Perfect for Spring!

Spring brings a vibrant energy, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a slice of Strawberry Cornmeal Cake? The fresh strawberries are at their peak, bursting with flavor, making this cake a delightful choice for any spring gathering.

Unique Texture

The use of cornmeal gives this cake a unique texture that separates it from typical cakes. You’ll find it has a lovely crumb that is both moist and a bit rustic, enhancing the overall experience.

Buttermilk Glaze Adds Creaminess

The buttermilk glaze is the star of the show, adding a luscious creaminess that ties the whole cake together. It drapes over the cake like a soft blanket, enhancing the flavor and making each slice even more enjoyable.

Easy to Make

Even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable. The steps are simple to follow, and the ingredients are easy to find. You’ll feel like a pro in no time!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake can be a centerpiece for celebrations, a sweet treat for brunch, or simply a delightful dessert after dinner. Its versatility means it can fit any occasion.

Family-Friendly

Baking together creates memories, and this recipe is the perfect opportunity to involve your family. Children will love adding the strawberries, and they’ll take pride in enjoying something they helped create.

What Goes Into Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

The ingredients in this Strawberry Cornmeal Cake work together beautifully to create a delightful dessert. Each component plays a significant role in flavor and texture. The combination of butter, sugar, and honey provides a rich sweetness, while buttermilk adds a slight tanginess and moisture. The strawberries bring a burst of freshness, making this cake perfect for any spring gathering.

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This is the fat that gives the cake its richness and moistness, a crucial element in any cake.
2 tablespoons light brown sugar – This adds a subtle caramel flavor and moisture to the cake.
1/2 cup honey – A natural sweetener that complements the strawberries and adds depth to the flavor profile.
1/2 cup buttermilk – This ingredient not only adds moisture but also lightens the cake’s texture.
2 teaspoons lemon zest – A hint of citrus that brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A classic flavor enhancer that brings warmth to the cake.
2 eggs – Essential for structure and stability, helping the cake rise.
1 1/2 cups Bobs Red Mill all-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
3/4 cup Bobs Red Mill Stone Ground Cornmeal – This adds unique texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder – The leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
2 cups fresh strawberries, halved – The stars of the cake, providing sweetness and moisture.
1/2 cup powdered sugar – Used for the glaze, adding sweetness and a beautiful finish.
2-4 tablespoons buttermilk – Additional moisture for the glaze, ensuring a silky texture.

Putting Together Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Making this Strawberry Cornmeal Cake is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. You’ll see how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Let’s dive into the steps!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 10 to 12-inch cast iron skillet or cake pan with a little butter to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, honey, buttermilk, lemon zest, and vanilla. Beat them together until the mixture is well combined and smooth, about five minutes. You want to see it become light and fluffy.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. This is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps the cake rise.
Now, gently mix in the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle!
Fold in the strawberries carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without crushing them. This will give you delightful bursts of fruitiness in every bite.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Make sure to smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be cautious not to overbake; the goal is a moist cake!
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and buttermilk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency to your preference by adding more buttermilk if needed.
Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. It will create a lovely sheen and add sweetness. Enjoy the cake slightly warm!
Slice, serve, and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful Strawberry Cornmeal Cake!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Temperature: For best results, ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
Measuring Ingredients: Spoon the flour and cornmeal into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing it down for an accurate measurement.
Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly done.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy.

Recipe Tips about Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Baking is a wonderful adventure, and with the right tips, you can make this Strawberry Cornmeal Cake even more enjoyable. Here are some helpful ideas to keep in mind:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it.
Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Pairing: Serve this cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Variations: Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture. You can also experiment with different fruits, like blueberries or peaches.
Serving Suggestions: This cake is perfect for brunch, picnics, or as a dessert for special occasions. It pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Glaze Ideas: Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for an extra zing.

Accompaniments for Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Finding the right accompaniments can elevate your Strawberry Cornmeal Cake experience. Here are some delightful ideas:

Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries for a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream creates a delectable pairing, especially for summer gatherings.
Coffee or Tea: The cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or herbal tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Picnic Delight: This cake is fantastic for picnics or outdoor events. Slice it into squares for easy serving.
Brunch Showstopper: It makes a lovely addition to brunch, alongside quiches and fruit salads.
Seasonal Celebrations: Ideal for celebrations like Mother’s Day or Easter brunch, it brings a seasonal flair to your table.

FAQ

While fresh strawberries are ideal for Strawberry Cornmeal Cake, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture. The flavor may not be as vibrant, but it will still be delicious!

Absolutely! The Strawberry Cornmeal Cake can be made a day ahead of your event. Simply bake the cake, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just add the glaze right before serving for that fresh touch!

If you’re looking to make a larger cake, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure your baking pan is big enough to accommodate the increased batter. Keep an eye on the baking time, as a larger cake may require additional time in the oven. Always perform the toothpick test to check for doneness.

While cornmeal gives the Strawberry Cornmeal Cake its unique texture, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour if necessary. However, this will change the cake’s flavor and texture, resulting in a more traditional cake. If you enjoy the distinct taste of cornmeal, I recommend keeping it in the recipe!

Conclusion

The Strawberry Cornmeal Cake is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an exceptional dessert for any occasion. With its delightful use of fresh strawberries and a creamy buttermilk glaze, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. You won’t regret it!