For a zesty and unique dessert, a Cornmeal Lemon Cake serves as a wonderful choice for 50 people. This cake balances the texture of cornmeal with the bright, citrus flavor of lemon. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 300g all-purpose flour
• 200g cornmeal
• 400g granulated sugar
• 250g unsalted butter, softened
• 360ml milk
• 4 large eggs
• Zest of 3 lemons
• 60ml lemon juice
• 15g baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 200g powdered sugar
• 3-4 tbsp lemon juice
• Additional lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:

• Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
• Grease and flour two large 9×13 inch cake pans.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

1. Add Eggs and Flavors:

• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined but do not overmix.

1. Bake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

1. Prepare Lemon Glaze:

• While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice to make the glaze. Adjust consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. It should be pourable but thick.

1. Cool and Glaze:

• Let the cakes cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the cakes and sprinkle with additional lemon zest for garnish.

1. Serve:
   • Cut into squares ensuring each guest gets a piece. Each 9×13 inch cake should be divided into about 25 squares for a total of 50 servings.

This Cornmeal Lemon Cake provides a delightful crunch from the cornmeal, complemented by the freshness of lemon, making it an ideal dessert for spring and summer gatherings, or anytime you want a dessert that’s a bit different and refreshing.