Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with every bite. The harmony of juicy blackberries and sweet peaches creates a burst of flavor, while the cornmeal base adds a unique texture and rich taste to the cake. This cake is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting dessert at home. Baked in a skillet, this cake has a rustic charm that invites everyone to gather around the table and enjoy a slice (or two). The best part? It’s simple to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for gatherings or a cozy family afternoon.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know to create this sweet masterpiece, from the ingredients to serving suggestions, storage tips, and variations to try. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients about Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

To bring this delectable cake to life, you will need a selection of basic ingredients. Here’s the full list you will need:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 peach, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
• Optional: coarse sugar for topping

Optional ingredient substitutions

• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 2/3 cup milk with 2 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
• For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• If fresh fruit isn’t available, frozen blackberries and peaches work just as well, making this cake versatile for any season.

How to Make Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

Creating this delightful cake is straightforward, and you can follow these steps to achieve a perfect result every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Skillet

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While the oven heats up, lightly butter a 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet or a 10-inch springform pan. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides to ensure the cake comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well-integrated and set this bowl aside. This mixture will provide the cake with a nice rise and flavor, so mixing it thoroughly is essential.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a larger mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until it becomes smooth and creamy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once combined, add in the two large eggs and vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is well blended and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on a low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix until just incorporated; be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake dense. Slowly pour in the room-temperature buttermilk and mix until smooth. Finally, fold in the chopped peach and blackberries gently with a spatula. Once incorporated, pour the batter into your prepared skillet, spreading it evenly. If you’d like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for an added crunch.

Step 5: Baking the Cake

Bake the cake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly in the skillet before proceeding to the icing.

Step 6: Make the Icing

To make the icing, melt the additional 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until the butter turns a lovely golden brown. This adds a rich, nutty flavor to the icing. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, pure vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Drizzle this delightful icing over the cooled cake and enjoy!

How to Serve Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

Now that your cake is baked and beautifully drizzled with icing, it’s time to think about how to serve it.

Best ways to serve Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

The Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake is delightful when served warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. Cut into generous slices, this cake appeals to both the eyes and the stomach. Consider dusting it with a little powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.

Serving suggestions or pairings

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Adding a light sprinkle of additional blackberries on each plate can enhance the presentation and flavor. For drinks, consider serving it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, tea, or even a glass of sweet iced tea, as these complement the cake’s sweetness beautifully.

How to Store Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

If you find yourself with leftover cake, storing it properly is essential to maintain its freshness.

Proper storage methods

Store your Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you still have it in the skillet, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it has cooled completely. You can also refrigerate the leftovers for up to 5 days.

Tips for reheating or freezing

When reheating, you can opt for the microwave for a quick 15-30 seconds, or you can warm individual slices in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5-10 minutes. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips to Make Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

Every cook has had a mishap or two in the kitchen. Here are some tips to help ensure your cake turns out perfectly!

Common mistakes to avoid

Overmixing your batter can lead to a dense cake, so always mix just until combined. Also, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. A slight variation can change the texture significantly. Lastly, let your cake cool slightly before icing; this prevents the icing from melting off.

Helpful tips for better results

To achieve the best flavor, use ripe peaches and fresh blackberries when in season. You can also elevate the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. For a richer taste, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter for both the cake and the icing.

Variation of Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake

If you’re interested in playing around with the original recipe, consider these variations and dietary adjustments.

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can swap out the blackberries and peaches for other fruits, such as blueberries or strawberries, for a completely different flavor experience. You might also try adding nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, for added texture and taste.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you want a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free butter substitute and almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk. These adjustments can cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Everyone has questions, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions about making this cake.

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cake isn’t rising, it may be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check these before you start baking. Also, ensure your oven is correctly calibrated, as an incorrect temperature could also be a culprit.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the skillet. Alternatively, the baked cake can be made a day or two ahead of time, and iced just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you run out of an ingredient, substitutions are often possible. As mentioned, you can create your buttermilk using regular milk and vinegar. For eggs, common substitutes are flaxseed meal or applesauce, though this may alter the cake’s texture slightly.

With this detailed guide, you are more than ready to tackle the delicious task of making a Blackberry Peach Skillet Cornmeal Cake. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring every slice of this mouthwatering treat!

Print