Cornmeal cake with cherries

Cornmeal and cherry cake: a rustic delicacy full of memories

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Sometimes, the simplest recipes carry the most beautiful stories. The cornmeal and cherry cake is a perfect example of a dessert that combines tradition with familiar flavor. This cake not only reminds us of days spent in nature, but it is also an excellent choice to satisfy your sweet tooth without being too heavy. Additionally, it is a quick recipe, perfect for moments when you want to surprise a loved one with a special dessert.

Ingredients needed

- 150 g cornmeal (ideally, use fine cornmeal for a more delicate texture)
- 150 ml milk (whole milk will add extra creaminess)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower oil is most suitable, but you can also experiment with olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 egg (make sure it is at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (a source of leavening for the cake)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (for a pleasant aroma)
- Zest and juice of one lemon (fresh, for a vibrant taste)
- A few cherries from jam or compote (fresh cherries are ideal, but canned ones will also work)

Step by step: Baking the cake

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 170°C (medium heat). This will ensure even baking and a perfect texture.

2. Preparing the milk: In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil. This will help activate the ingredients and make the batter more airy.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the egg with the sugar and vanilla sugar until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Add the cornmeal and baking powder, mixing continuously.

4. Incorporating the oil and citrus: Add the oil, lemon zest, and juice to the egg and sugar mixture. Mix well to obtain a uniform paste.

5. Adding the milk: Once the milk has reached boiling point, slowly pour it into the mixture, stirring continuously. You will notice how the batter becomes more fluid and glossy.

6. Preparing the baking tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease it with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the flowing batter into the tray and level the surface.

7. Adding the cherries: Arrange the cherries from jam or compote on top of the batter, distributing them evenly for a balanced taste in each slice.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the cake bake for 30 minutes. Check if it is baked by using the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling: Once the cake has taken on a golden color, turn off the oven and let the cake cool in the oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove it and let it cool completely on a rack.

10. Serving: Cut the cake into squares and serve it plain or with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. It is delicious at room temperature!

Chef's tip

To enhance the flavor of the cake, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. This will give a warm and comforting taste, perfect for colder days.

Variations

If you want to experiment, replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or even peach chunks. Each variation will bring a unique note to your cake.

Nutritional benefits

This cornmeal cake is a fantastic choice for a healthy snack. Cornmeal is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy. Additionally, cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, adding extra nutrients to your cake.

Frequently asked questions

- Can the cake be made without an egg?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a ripe banana or a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 10 minutes).

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

Delicious combinations

The cornmeal and cherry cake pairs perfectly with a refreshing green tea or aromatic coffee. Additionally, a glass of lemonade or a fruit smoothie will complete the tasting experience.

This cornmeal and cherry cake is not just a simple dessert, but also a way to share beautiful moments with loved ones. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or as a quick snack, it is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of those who taste it. So, put on your apron and enjoy every step of this recipe! Enjoy your meal!