Sweet Low-Fat Cornmeal Cake Recipe
Cook Time: 40 minutes | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Recipe Category: Dessert
Servings: 16
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5, 2 reviews)
This Sweet Low-Fat Cornmeal Cake is a delightful dessert with a crispy, golden outer layer and a soft, sweet interior. The cake strikes a perfect balance of sweetness without the guilt, and its texture provides a satisfying contrast between the crunchy exterior and the moist center. Inspired by Susan Powter’s “Hey, Mom! I’m Hungry!”, this cake is the ideal treat for large groups or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, light on the fat, and just the right amount of sweet to finish off any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornmeal | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Non-fat vanilla yogurt | 6 oz |
| Canola oil | 3 tbsp |
| Egg substitute (or eggs) | 1 |
| Skim milk | ¾ cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 108.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 1.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0.5 mg |
| Sodium | 252.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugars | 7.6 g |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a golden-brown top while ensuring the center stays soft and moist.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture forms the base of your cake, providing structure and a subtly sweet flavor.
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In a separate small bowl, combine the non-fat vanilla yogurt, canola oil, egg substitute (or a regular egg if preferred), and skim milk. Stir the mixture until it is well combined. The yogurt adds creaminess and moisture, while the egg substitute (or egg) helps bind the ingredients.
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Mix the wet ingredients thoroughly to break up any lumps in the yogurt and ensure that the oil is fully incorporated. This step is essential for achieving a smooth batter that will bake evenly.
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Once the wet ingredients are ready, combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Stir carefully, just until the mixtures come together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture instead of the light, airy consistency we want.
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Prepare the pan by spraying a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9-inch tart pan (for a more decorative edge) with cooking spray. This helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and allows it to come out easily once baked.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The batter should be thick but spread evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake during the baking process; it will begin to puff up in the middle, creating a slightly dome-shaped top. The cake should turn a rich golden-brown on top.
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To test for doneness, insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean (with just a few moist crumbs), the cake is ready to come out of the oven.
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Cool for a few minutes in the pan, then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into 16 pieces and enjoy this guilt-free treat.
Tips for Perfect Cornmeal Cake:
- Texture Tip: For a slightly firmer cake, you can reduce the amount of milk by 1–2 tablespoons. This will yield a denser texture, while maintaining the cake’s delicious flavor.
- Flavor Enhancements: Try adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a subtle spice, especially if you’re serving it during the fall or winter months.
- Serving Suggestion: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence, though it remains perfectly sweet without added toppings.
This Sweet Low-Fat Cornmeal Cake is a versatile and approachable dessert that combines a crunchy crust with a sweet and tender center. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a quick, satisfying treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cornmeal in this lightened-up version of a classic dessert.
