Sweet Corn Anise Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the aromatic flavor of anise. This unique cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon treat. Its moist texture and fragrant aroma will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. This cake is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, anise seeds, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Fold in Sweet Corn
Gently fold in the sweet corn kernels until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the batter.
What can I substitute for anise seeds?
If you don’t have anise seeds, you can substitute them with fennel seeds or omit them entirely for a different flavor profile.
How should I store the Sweet Corn Anise Cake?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
What are some variations I can try?
You can add lemon zest for a citrusy twist or incorporate nuts for added texture. Experimenting with different spices can also yield interesting flavors!