Coconut Cornmeal Cake
Desserts

Coconut Cornmeal Cake

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 27, 2026

A soft, golden cornmeal cake bursting with the tropical sweetness of shredded coconut. This Brazilian-inspired treat is wonderfully moist, simple to prepare, and perfect for afternoon tea or a comforting dessert. Every bite delivers a delightful mix of rustic corn flavor and coconut warmth.

Prep⏱️ 60 min
Servings👥 10 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

10 servings

10
  • 240 g (2 cups) fine cornmeal
  • 375 ml (1½ cups) whole milk
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
  • 45 g (3 tbsp) melted margarine or butter
  • 20 g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
  • 10 g (1 tbsp) baking powder
  • 50 g (½ cup) shredded coconut

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 170 °C (340 °F). Grease and flour a cake pan.

  2. 2

    Beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and set aside in the refrigerator.

  3. 3

    Using an electric mixer, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and melted margarine until light and creamy.

  4. 4

    Add the milk, cornmeal, flour, shredded coconut, and baking powder. Mix until a smooth, even batter forms.

  5. 5

    Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter using a spatula, with slow circular movements from bottom to top to keep them airy.

  6. 6

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake at low heat for about 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. 7

    Cool for 10 minutes before unmolding. Serve warm or at room temperature.

💡 Chef's Tip

Lightly toast the shredded coconut in a dry pan before adding it to the batter for a deeper flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar on top makes for a beautiful presentation.