Grits cake is a beloved Southern dish, a comforting and delicious treat that is sure to please. But what if you could take it to the next level and create a gooey, decadent version that is sure to become one of your go-to desserts? With a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, you can create a scrumptious grits cake that is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
What is grits cake?
Before we dive into the recipe, it's worth exploring what grits cake actually is. Essentially, it's a dense, cake-like creation made with grits, which are a Southern staple made from ground corn. It's a versatile dish that can be sweet or savory, depending on your tastes, and is often served as a side dish or breakfast food. However, with the addition of some sugar and other sweet ingredients, you can easily make a grits cake that's perfect for dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of quick-cooking grits
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 a stick of unsalted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 a cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 a cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 a cup of chopped pecans
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large pot, combine your water, milk, and butter, and bring them to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add in your grits, stirring frequently to prevent any lumps from forming.
4. Cook your grits for about 5 minutes until they are thick and creamy, and then remove them from the heat.
5. Stir in your sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs, whisking them together until they are fully incorporated.
6. Pour your grits mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together your heavy cream and brown sugar, pouring the mixture over the top of your grits.
8. Sprinkle your chopped pecans over the top of your mixture, pressing them in slightly to ensure they stick.
9. Bake your grits cake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
10. Remove your cake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
1. Use quick-cooking grits for the best results. While regular grits will work, they will take longer to cook and may not be as smooth and creamy.
2. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings. You could add in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor, or top your cake with some whipped cream or fresh berries.
3. Be sure to fully incorporate your eggs and sugar into your grits mixture, as this will help give your cake a fluffy, moist texture.
4. Don't skimp on the butter or heavy cream for a truly decadent dish. However, if you want to make a slightly lighter version, you could use almond milk or coconut milk instead.
5. If you don't have chopped pecans, you could use other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even skip the nuts altogether.
Conclusion:
Grits cake may not be the most traditional dessert, but with a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, you can turn this Southern favorite into a decadent and delicious treat. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a post-dinner indulgence, this gooey grits cake is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the magic of grits cake.