Rustic Cornmeal Cake with Anise Seeds
Desserts

Rustic Cornmeal Cake with Anise Seeds

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 19, 2026

A soft, golden cornmeal cake infused with the subtle warmth of anise seeds — simple to make and wonderfully fragrant. Perfect for afternoon tea, potlucks, or a comforting homemade treat the whole family will love.

Prep⏱️ 40 min
Servings👥 15 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

15 servings

15
  • 3 whole eggs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sunflower oil
  • 1 cup (150 g) fine cornmeal
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 320 °F (160 °C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or rectangular cake pan.

  2. 2

    In a blender or large bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and oil until smooth and slightly frothy.

  3. 3

    Gradually stir in the cornmeal, flour and sugar, mixing until a lump-free batter forms.

  4. 4

    Gently fold in the anise seeds and baking powder with a spatula, taking care not to overmix.

  5. 5

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  6. 6

    Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Slice and serve at room temperature.

💡 Chef's Tip

Toast the anise seeds in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes before adding them to the batter to deepen their aroma. Fennel seeds are a great mild-flavored substitute if anise is too bold for your taste.