Sweet Corn Cake, known as “Pastel de Elote” in Spanish, is a traditional Mexican dessert that combines the natural sweetness of corn with a moist and tender cake texture. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a sweet indulgence to enjoy at home. The recipe is straightforward, requiring basic ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious Mexican dessert in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Sweet Corn Cake
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Fresh fruit or whipped cream for serving (optional)
How to Make Sweet Corn Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Corn Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a blender or food processor, add the corn kernels and blend until smooth. You can leave a few corn pieces for texture if you prefer a more rustic cake.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until it becomes creamy and smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue to beat until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Add the Corn Puree
Fold in the blended corn puree into the batter until evenly distributed. This will give the cake its unique texture and sweet corn flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve the Sweet Corn Cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy this delicious Mexican dessert with your family and friends!
About the Main Ingredients
Corn
Corn is the star ingredient of this cake, providing its natural sweetness and unique texture. Corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine, used in various dishes from tortillas to tamales. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to this dessert.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness to the cake. It helps create a moist texture and enhances the overall flavor. This ingredient is commonly used in Latin American desserts and provides a rich, caramel-like taste.
Cornmeal
Cornmeal gives the cake a slightly gritty texture that pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the blended corn. It also adds a subtle corn flavor, complementing the fresh corn kernels used in the recipe.
Butter and Eggs
Butter and eggs are essential for creating a tender and moist cake. The butter adds richness and flavor, while the eggs provide structure and help the cake rise during baking.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the cake. It pairs well with the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the butter and sweetened condensed milk.
Flour
All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure for the cake. When combined with cornmeal, it balances the texture, making the cake tender yet firm enough to hold its shape.
Baking Powder
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise and become light and fluffy. It’s crucial for achieving the perfect texture in this Sweet Corn Cake.
Sweet Corn Cake is a delightful Mexican dessert that is easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of fresh corn, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla creates a moist, tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, this Sweet Corn Cake is sure to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and share the joy of this traditional Mexican dessert with your loved ones!
