Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cornmeal Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Cornmeal Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the unique texture of cornmeal. The cake is moist, fluffy, and has a lovely golden crust. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy afternoon tea. The vibrant color of the strawberries adds a beautiful touch, making it an eye-catching dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a sunny day, this cake will surely impress your family and friends!

What You’ll Need for Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

To create this delicious Strawberry Cornmeal Cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully.

Complete Ingredients List

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. If you’re vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk. For a twist, try adding lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor!

How to Make Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Making this Strawberry Cornmeal Cake is simple and fun! Follow these steps to create a delicious dessert.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar. Set them aside to macerate while you prepare the batter. This will enhance their sweetness and create a lovely syrup.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be slightly thick.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the macerated strawberries along with any juices that have accumulated. This will give the cake a beautiful color and flavor.

Step 7: Pour into the Pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

How to Serve Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. For a beautiful presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Slice the cake into wedges and arrange them on a platter for a lovely display.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storing & Preserving Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Best Storage Methods

To store your Strawberry Cornmeal Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. For longer storage, freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cornmeal Cake Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Be gentle when folding in the strawberries. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Helpful Tricks for Success

For a more intense strawberry flavor, consider macerating the strawberries in a bit of sugar before adding them to the batter. This will enhance their sweetness and juiciness!

Fun Variations of Strawberry Cornmeal Cake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Feel free to experiment with different fruits! Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be great alternatives. You can also add nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To make this cake vegan, use flax eggs and plant-based milk. For a nut-free version, ensure that your flour and other ingredients are free from cross-contamination.

FAQs

What If My Strawberry Cornmeal Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your cake doesn’t rise, check that your baking powder is fresh. If it’s too dry, you may have overbaked it. Always follow the timing closely!

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! You can make the cake a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour or use honey instead of sugar. Be creative with your substitutions to suit your dietary needs!

Print