Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread: Authentic Recipe & Step-by-Step Preparation from Scratch
🌽 What Is Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread?
Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread is a soft, moist cake made primarily with cornmeal or fresh maize, often sweetened and baked with rich flavors like coconut, milk, and vanilla. This dessert or snack is popular at home gatherings, street food stalls, and cultural celebrations across Cameroon.
Unlike American-style cornbread, the Cameroonian version is often more cake-like in texture, with a dense crumb and sometimes a crusty edge from baking in banana leaves or aluminum pans.
🛒 Ingredients for Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cornmeal or fresh maize | 2 cups | Base ingredient for texture and flavor |
| All-purpose flour (optional) | ½ cup | Optional, for structure (skip for gluten-free) |
| Sugar | ½ – ¾ cup | For sweetness |
| Coconut milk or whole milk | 1 cup | For richness |
| Eggs | 2 | Binding and structure |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Helps the bread rise |
| Butter or oil | ½ cup (melted) | Adds moisture and richness |
| Grated coconut (optional) | ½ cup | Adds texture and flavor |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Optional aroma |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Balances flavor |
🍽️ How to Prepare Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread from Scratch
✅ Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
✅ Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cornmeal
- All-purpose flour (if using)
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Sugar
- Grated coconut (optional)
Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
✅ Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk:
- Eggs
- Milk or coconut milk
- Melted butter or oil
- Vanilla extract
✅ Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture while stirring.
- Mix until you achieve a smooth batter. Don’t overmix.
✅ Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
🍰 Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with tea or coffee.
- Serve with Cameroon-style hot chocolate, or as a dessert after meals.
- Can also be paired with fruit jams, butter, or syrups.
💡 Tips for Perfect Sweet Corn Bread
- For extra moisture, use freshly blended corn kernels instead of dry cornmeal.
- Add nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced version.
- Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use only cornmeal without flour?
Yes! You can skip the flour entirely to keep it gluten-free. Just expect a slightly denser texture.
Q: Can I make it without an oven?
Yes. You can steam it in a covered pot using a water bath, though it will lack the classic crust.
Q: How long does it last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3–4 days at room temperature or up to 1 week refrigerated.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Cameroonian Sweet Corn Bread is more than just a snack—it’s a nostalgic bite of home. Whether served at breakfast, tea time, or festive events, it reflects the heart of Cameroon’s culinary heritage with every slice.
Try baking this today and share the taste of Cameroon with your loved ones!