Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting is a delightful twist on a classic. This moist cake, infused with the traditional flavors of cornbread, is topped with a luscious honey buttercream frosting, making it perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a cozy family gathering, or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a memorable dessert that everyone will love.

Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed) Adjust based on desired frosting consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting
- For the frosting, beat the unsalted butter in a bowl until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, honey, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat with the last layer.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake.
Serving
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Why Make This Recipe
Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting is more than just a dessert; itโs a celebration of flavors that encapsulates comfort and home. This recipe is perfect for those looking for something exciting yet familiar, combining the earthy sweetness of cornbread with the smooth decadence of buttercream. Itโs ideal for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
“This cake is a game changer! The cornmeal adds a unique texture, and the honey buttercream takes it over the top. Definitely a hit at our family brunch!” – Happy Baker
Making this dish at home opens up a world of creativity. It gives you the chance to impress guests while enjoying a straightforward baking process. What more could you want from a recipe?
How to Make Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting
This recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With just a handful of steps, youโll have a delicious cornbread cake that everyone will rave about. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the cake pans. Then mix your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately before combining them. This careful mixing ensures a fluffy texture that will have your loved ones coming back for more. After the cakes are baked to perfection, youโll whip up the creamy honey buttercream frosting that brings it all together beautifully.
Ingredients
To create this scrumptious Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
You can switch out certain ingredients if needed. For example, gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour, making it a suitable choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the unsalted butter in a bowl until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, honey, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat with the last layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Slice and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It
Cornbread Cake with Honey Buttercream Frosting is versatile. Serve it as a unique dessert at a family dinner, or enjoy it with a morning cup of coffee. For an added touch, consider topping the cake with fresh berries or drizzling additional honey on top. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat that melds perfectly with the cake’s flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keeping leftovers fresh is essential to enjoying this cake for days. Once completely cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They can be enjoyed later, simply thaw and enjoy!
Pro Chef Tips
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Avoid overmixingโthe batter should be mixed until just combined to maintain fluffiness.
- Experiment with your frosting! Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
Creative Twists
Feel free to add your personal touch to this recipe. Incorporate flavors by mixing in lemon or orange zest for a refreshing hint of citrus. For a nutty flavor, consider folding in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake layers for added sweetness!
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is approximately 20 minutes, with a bake time of 25-30 minutes. Including cool time, you might need about 2 hours from start to finish.Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey buttercream frosting a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just beat it again before using to restore the creamy texture.
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