Cornflake Corn Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

While I have a lot of respect for the skills needed to create illusion cakes, I've never been too interested in them. You've probably seen cakes that look like toasters, or maybe one that looks like a sliced red velvet cake. But recently, I watched a show where someone made ice cream bars that resembled fried chicken legs, and that sparked my curiosity. I decided to try my hand at an illusion cake. While it didnt go as planned, I did end up with a nearly full box of cornflakes in my pantry, and that led to the creation of this fantastic corn cake.

Originally, I was gathering ingredients to make cornbread to pair with a new chili recipe. When I went to grab the cornmeal, I saw the box of cornflakes sitting there. Thats when the idea hit me: What if I added cornflakes to cornbread batter? The result was one of the most delicious and texturally satisfying cornbreads Ive ever made or tasted.

I decided to call it a corn cake, as it turned out round and a bit sweeter than regular cornbread. But regardless of the name, it was fantastic. At first, I thought I had just invented something brand new. However, after a quick search, I found that it had been done before. Sadly, I didn't invent this, but Id like to think that I could have. Despite not being an original creation, I thought it was amazing and I hope you give it a try soon!

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon butter (for greasing the pan)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/2 cups cornflakes, divided

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with 1 teaspoon of butter, and line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the egg and sugar for about 1 minute, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then, whisk in the melted butter, yogurt, and milk until well combined.

Step 3: Add the cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda to the egg mixture. Whisk everything together until the dry ingredients are moistened.

Step 4: Gently fold in 2 cups of the cornflakes using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Scatter the remaining 1/2 cup of cornflakes evenly over the top and press them in lightly with your fingers.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted near the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before transferring it to a plate. Let it cool completely before serving, ideally with fresh fruit or a fruit sauce for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 271
• Total Fat: 11g (14% of Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (31% of Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 49mg (16% of Daily Value)
• Sodium: 493mg (21% of Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g (14% of Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% of Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 5g (10% of Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (2% of Daily Value)
• Calcium: 105mg (8% of Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (21% of Daily Value)
• Potassium: 120mg (3% of Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The Cornflake Corn Cake, a modern twist on the classic cornbread, has an interesting origin story that begins in the heart of American kitchens. While cornbread has been a staple of Southern cooking for centuries, it wasn't until a bit of culinary creativity entered the scene that the Cornflake Corn Cake came into being. The dish was created by Chef John, who, after finding himself with an excess of cornflakes, decided to incorporate this breakfast cereal into a traditional cornbread batter. The result was a moist, sweeter version of cornbread with a distinct texture, thanks to the crunch of the cornflakes.

Regional Features and Variations

Cornbread is a beloved dish across the United States, particularly in the South and Midwest, where corn is a major agricultural product. However, the Cornflake Corn Cake is not typically found in its traditional form across all regions. This variation, often found in modern kitchens and food blogs, is a product of innovation and creativity, rather than deep-rooted regional tradition. It blends the characteristics of cornbread with the distinct crunch of cornflakes, which sets it apart from the usual dense, crumbly texture of regular cornbread. Some versions may include additional ingredients like coconut or fruit to enhance the sweetness or flavor profile.

Differences from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Cornflake Corn Cake may appear to be just another variation of cornbread, but its texture and sweetness are what set it apart. Traditional cornbread is often drier and more savory, sometimes served as a side dish to balance out a hearty, spicy meal like chili. The Cornflake Corn Cake, on the other hand, is noticeably sweeter and moist, making it a great choice for a dessert or a sweet side dish. Additionally, the addition of cornflakes not only changes the texture but also adds a subtle flavor that is distinct from the graininess of cornmeal typically used in cornbread.

Where It's Typically Served

The Cornflake Corn Cake is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It is often found on the dessert table at family gatherings, holidays, or barbecues, thanks to its sweet flavor and satisfying texture. The cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a fruit sauce, making it a popular choice for spring and summer events. It can also be served as a sweet side dish for savory meals, particularly those that include rich, spicy dishes like chili, barbecued meats, or hearty stews. Its simplicity and delightful crunch make it a favorite for both casual meals and festive occasions.

Interesting Facts

While Chef John may not have "invented" the concept of using cornflakes in cornbread, his creation of the Cornflake Corn Cake helped bring this innovative recipe into the spotlight. The idea of adding cereal to baked goods is not entirely new, as ingredients like cornflakes and rice crispies have long been used in various desserts and snacks. The Cornflake Corn Cake stands out for its perfect balance of moistness and crunch, a characteristic that is often difficult to achieve in other similar recipes. Another interesting tidbit is that the recipe allows for customizationingredients like coconut, yogurt, or milk can be swapped out based on personal preferences or dietary needs, making it as adaptable as it is delicious.

Conclusion

The Cornflake Corn Cake is a delightful reinvention of the classic cornbread. With its sweet, moist texture and the crunch of cornflakes, it provides a new way to enjoy a traditional favorite. Whether served as a dessert, side dish, or snack, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the unique twist of cornflakes, makes it a standout in the world of baked goods.

FAQ about Cornflake Corn Cake Recipe

Comments