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Cornbread cake topped with fluffy whipped honey buttercream frosting, baked golden brown and garnished with a drizzle of honey and fresh herbs for a rustic presentation.

Cornbread Cake with Whipped Honey Buttercream Frosting – Sweet Comfort Food Dessert Idea

This cornbread cake with whipped honey buttercream frosting recipe is a rustic and cozy dessert made with moist cornbread and sweet honey frosting. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or anytime you want a comforting homemade treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Brunch Treat, Dessert
Cuisine American, Rustic Fusion
Servings 10
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • 9x9-inch cake pan or round pan
  • Cooling rack
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Cornbread Cake:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup melted butter

Whipped Honey Buttercream:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp honey (high-quality preferred)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Cake Batter: Mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
  • Bake: Pour batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a rack.
  • Make Buttercream: Beat softened butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then honey and vanilla. Whip until smooth. Add cream as needed for consistency.
  • Frost Cake: Spread buttercream evenly over cooled cake. Decorate with honey drizzle, citrus zest, or fresh fruit.
  • Pro Tip: Chill frosting slightly before spreading for easier handling.

Notes

  • Layer Cake: Double recipe and stack with frosting between layers.
  • Cupcakes: Bake in muffin tins and pipe buttercream swirls.
  • Fruit Add-Ins: Fold in berries or top with peaches for a summery twist.
  • Spiced Version: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to batter for warmth.
  • Diet-Friendly: Use gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter/cream alternatives.
  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 3–4 days; freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.
Keyword Cornbread cake, honey buttercream, rustic dessert, sweet cornbread