Brazilian Bolo de Milho is a traditional corn cake made with fresh corn, coconut milk, milk, eggs, flour, sugar and butter. This easy Brazilian recipe is baked until golden brown and is traditionally served with strong coffee during afternoon gatherings.
By Chef Maria Pia Peter
Brazilian corn cake traditionally served with strong coffee in the afternoon
Brazilian cuisine is known for its variety of flavors and ingredients, and corn is an important part of the culinary traditions found throughout the country. This Brazilian-style corn cake, known as Bolo de Milho, combines fresh corn with coconut milk for a moist and flavorful homemade cake.
Corn and the foods made with this ingredient are popular in many countries around the world, and Brazil is no different. In this recipe, coconut milk adds a distinctive Brazilian touch to the traditional corn cake.
Brazilians love to enjoy Bolo de Milho Verde with a fresh, strong cup of coffee, especially during an informal conversation with friends or family in the late afternoon or early evening. For Brazilians living in the United States, this simple recipe can also be a way to bring a familiar taste of Brazil into the home.
Brazilian Corn Cake Ingredients
For this Brazilian corn cake, you will need 3 ears of corn, 7 oz of coconut milk, 7 oz of milk, 3 eggs, 1 cup of flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 6 tablespoons of butter, and salt.
How to Make Brazilian Corn Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Blend all the ingredients together and then pour the mixture through a sieve.
Grease the bottom and sides of a round cake pan with a hole in the middle using butter and flour. Pour the corn cake mixture into the prepared pan.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the surface of the cake becomes golden brown.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. It pairs especially well with a fresh, strong cup of coffee, following the traditional Brazilian afternoon coffee tradition.
A Brazilian Recipe for Coffee and Family Gatherings
Bolo de Milho Verde as a traditional Brazilian recipe enjoyed by families and friends
Bolo de Milho Verde is a familiar part of Brazilian home cooking and is especially associated with relaxed moments shared with family and friends. The combination of corn, coconut milk and a sweet cake makes it a simple option for an afternoon snack or coffee break.
For Brazilians abroad, including those living in the United States, traditional recipes such as this one can also provide a connection to Brazilian food and family traditions.
* Brazilian chef Maria Pia Peter graduated in 1987 as an Economic major at UFPE (Pernambuco State University) and lived in Sao Paulo for 10 years, where she had the opportunity to study Fine Arts at the Panamericana Art & Design School, then was engaged in a course for International Chefs at the SENAC University Center. She lives in Recife, Pernambuco state. Her daughter, Amanda Peter, is an actress that lives in Los Angeles and help us with translations.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Bolo de Milho?
Bolo de Milho is a traditional Brazilian corn cake made with corn and commonly enjoyed as a snack or with coffee. This version also uses coconut milk.
2. What makes Brazilian corn cake different?
Brazilian corn cake has many regional and family variations. This recipe combines fresh corn, coconut milk, milk, eggs, flour, sugar and butter.
3. Can I make Brazilian corn cake in the United States?
Yes. The ingredients used in this recipe are generally available in U.S. supermarkets and Brazilian grocery stores.
4. How long does Brazilian corn cake take to bake?
This recipe calls for approximately 30 minutes in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F), or until the surface becomes golden brown.
5. What do Brazilians traditionally drink with Bolo de Milho?
Bolo de Milho is traditionally enjoyed with fresh, strong coffee, particularly during afternoon or early-evening gatherings with family and friends.
