Golden French Cornmeal Cake with Sweet Apple Topping

Indulge in the charm of traditional French cuisine with this delightful Cornmeal Cake, also known as Le Gâteau De Maïs. This classic recipe offers a beautiful contrast of crispiness and tenderness, perfect for a light and quick meal. It combines the natural sweetness of apples with a subtly sweet and savory cornmeal batter. The result is a dish that feels like a dessert yet is as satisfying as a vegetable side. With a baking time of just 15 minutes and a prep time of only 15 minutes, this is an ideal recipe for those moments when you need a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Whether served with a garlicky salad or enjoyed on its own, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 tablespoons Splenda sugar substitute
• 2/3 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/3 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 450°F (230°C), ensuring it reaches this temperature before you begin baking.

2. Prepare the Tart Pan:
   Melt the butter and pour it into a 10-inch tart pan. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly with the melted butter, creating a non-stick surface for your cake.

3. Heat the Milk:
   In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Keep it on low heat to maintain the temperature while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

4. Mix the Batter:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the egg and sugar until well combined. Add the cornmeal, flour, and sea salt, whisking until fully integrated. Gradually add the hot milk to the mixture, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth batter.

5. Prepare the Apples:
   Arrange the apple slices evenly over the bottom of the tart pan. The apples will be partially submerged in the batter but should remain visible.

6. Add the Batter:
   Give the cornmeal mixture another quick whisk and pour it over the apples in the tart pan. Gently shake the pan to spread the batter evenly and ensure that it covers the apples well.

7. Bake the Cake:
   Place the tart pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cake’s edges are deeply golden and the center is a lighter shade of golden. The cake should be firm to the touch and slightly crispy on the edges.

8. Serve:
   Remove the Cornmeal Cake from the oven and serve it immediately. It’s best enjoyed fresh and hot, showcasing its crispiness and warm apple flavor.

This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for a quick brunch or a sweet snack. The combination of golden, crispy edges with the tender, apple-studded interior makes for a treat that’s both satisfying and delightful. Enjoy this classic French recipe with a side of garlicky salad or simply on its own for a deliciously light meal.

Bon appétit! 🌟🍏🍰