New England Spider Cake

Dive into a slice of nostalgia with New England Spider Cake, a charmingly rustic creation that beautifully balances the earthy sweetness of cornmeal with a surprising creamy center. Baked to perfection in a traditional cast-iron skillet, this heritage recipe gets its name from the spider-like legs formed by the cream as it seeps through the batter during baking. Featuring simple pantry staples like cornmeal, flour, and a touch of sugar, the real magic happens when heavy cream is poured directly into the center, creating a luscious, custard-like layer. With its golden edges, soft crumb, and rich, creamy middle, this easy-to-make, one-pan dessert is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting treat served warm right out of the oven.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.33 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.75 cup heavy cream

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat while you prepare the batter.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk and vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.

Step 4

After 5 minutes, whisk the eggs into the milk mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 5

Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 6

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter, swirling it around until it melts and coats the bottom and sides of the pan.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared skillet, spreading it evenly.

Step 8

Carefully pour the heavy cream directly into the center of the batter. Do not stir. The cream will form a rich, custard-like layer as the cake bakes.

Step 9

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the edge of the cake (avoid the center layer of cream) comes out clean.

Step 10

Allow the Spider Cake to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. It is best enjoyed warm, as the creamy center adds a delightful texture contrast.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1144.5 grams (1144.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2463

Total Fat 117.50g	151%
Saturated Fat 63.30g	317%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 673mg	224%
Sodium 2035mg	88%
Total Carbohydrate 296.00g	108%
Dietary Fiber 16.20g	58%
Total Sugars 91.20g
Protein 49.10g	98%

Vitamin D 297IU	1484%
Calcium 675mg	52%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 1235mg	26%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.4%

Protein: 8.1%

Carbs: 48.6%