Try these easy Cheesecake Factory Corn Cakes topped with tomatillo salsa, pico de gallo, southwestern sauce, avocados, and sour cream!
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cheesecake Factory’s Corn Cakes with this delightful copycat recipe. These mouthwatering appetizers are a fusion of Tex-Mex and Southwestern flavors, making them a perfect addition to family gatherings and parties. The recipe features three distinct components: a zesty Salsa Verde with tomatillos and green chilies, a refreshing Tomato Salsa with a hint of jalapeno kick, and a creamy Southwestern Sauce that ties it all together. These elements come together harmoniously to complement the savory Tamale Corn Cakes, which are lightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, thanks to a clever blend of corn, butter, and corn masa harina flour.
The Cheesecake Factory Corn Cakes are not only packed with flavor but also surprisingly easy to prepare. With clear instructions and readily available ingredients, this copycat recipe allows you to recreate restaurant-quality appetizers in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a delicious snack, these corn cakes are sure to impress with their bold and well-balanced taste. Need more Cheesecake Factory Recipes? Check out Spicy Cashew Chicken and Louisiana Chicken Pasta.
Why Make Corn Cakes At Home?
Making this Cheesecake Factory Corn Cakes recipe at home allows you to enjoy the restaurant’s famous flavors in a convenient and cost-effective way. With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delectable corn cakes whenever you desire, impressing your family and guests with a restaurant-quality appetizer that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Table of contents
Sabrina’s Corn Cakes Recipe
Sabrina’s Corn Cakes Recipe is a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex and Southwestern flavors. The dish features tender corn cakes made with a mixture of sweet corn, butter, and corn masa harina flour, creating a harmonious blend of crispy exteriors and soft interiors. The highlight of this recipe is the trio of vibrant salsas: zesty Salsa Verde with tomatillos and green chilies, refreshing Tomato Salsa with jalapeno kick, and a creamy Southwestern Sauce that ties everything together. This Tex-Mex treat is perfect for family gatherings and parties, and its simplicity ensures that you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right in your own home.
Can These Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Sabrina’s Tex-Mex Tamale Corn Cakes in advance. Make the corn cakes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can prepare the salsas and Southwestern Sauce a day ahead. Just assemble and garnish when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 2 Tomatillos: Tomatillos add a tangy, citrusy flavor to the salsa Verde, providing a unique base for the dish. If unavailable, you can substitute with green tomatoes.
- 4 ounces Mild Green Chilies: These chilies bring a mild, smoky heat to the salsa, balancing the flavors. Canned or fresh chilies can be used, and you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
- 1 Green Onion: Green onions provide a fresh, mild onion flavor to both salsas. Finely chopped regular onions can be a substitute when necessary.
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro: Cilantro (a.k.a. fresh coriander) imparts a refreshing herbaceous note, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish. If cilantro isn’t your preference, you can omit it.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons Granulated Sugar: Sugar harmonizes the acidity in the salsas, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cumin: Cumin adds depth and earthiness to the Salsa Verde.
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher Salt: Salt enhances the flavors, bringing out the natural taste of the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon Coarse Ground Black Pepper: Black pepper provides a subtle kick and complements the other spices.
- 2 medium Tomatoes: Tomatoes form the base of the Tomato Salsa, offering a juicy and slightly acidic component.
- 1 tablespoon Minced Onion: Minced white, yellow, or purple onion contributes a mild, savory bite to the salsa.
- ¼ teaspoon Lime Juice: Lime juice adds a zesty, citrusy kick, brightening the flavors of the salsa.
- ½ small Jalapeno, seeded and minced: Jalapeno brings a gentle heat to the salsa. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
- ½ cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the Southwestern Sauce, creating a luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon White Vinegar: White vinegar adds a tangy, acidic note to balance the richness of the mayonnaise.
- ½ teaspoon Chili Powder: Chili powder contributes a smoky, spicy flavor to the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a mild, earthy undertone to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a gentle heat; adjust it to your spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder: Onion powder adds savory depth to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder introduces a subtle garlic flavor to the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups Sweet Corn: Sweet corn is the star ingredient, providing a naturally sweet and tender texture to the corn cakes.
- ½ cup Butter, softened: Butter adds richness and moisture to the corn cakes, ensuring a deliciously tender crumb.
- ½ cup Corn Masa Harina Flour (corn flour): Corn masa harina flour gives the corn cakes their distinct tamale-like texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the ingredients together, providing structure to the corn cakes.
- ¼ cup Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy element when dolloped on top of the assembled corn cakes.
- ½ Avocado, diced: Diced avocado provides a creamy, buttery contrast to the dish, enhancing its richness.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- Food Processor: A food processor is indispensable for making the salsas and blending ingredients smoothly. Ensure it’s clean and dry before use to prevent diluting flavors.
- Pan: A non-stick or cast-iron pan is crucial for cooking the Tamale Corn Cakes. Preheat it adequately, and use a spatula for easy flipping.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need several mixing bowls for various components like the salsas, Southwestern Sauce, and corn cake mixture. Choose bowls with ample space for thorough mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, especially when dealing with spices and seasoning. Use measuring cups and spoons to maintain flavor consistency.
- Spatula: A spatula is essential for gently flipping and removing the cooked corn cakes from the pan. Opt for a heat-resistant spatula to avoid damage.
How to Make
Time needed: 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Step 1: Prepare the Salsa Verde
In a food processor, combine the diced tomatillos, mild green chilies, minced green onion, minced cilantro, granulated sugar, ground cumin, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper. Pulse for 5-10 seconds until well mixed. Transfer the Salsa Verde to the refrigerator to chill.
- Step 2: Create the Tomato Salsa
In the same food processor (no need to clean it), add the medium tomatoes, minced onion, minced cilantro, lime juice, minced jalapeno, kosher salt, and coarse ground black pepper. Pulse for 5-10 seconds until well mixed. Place the Tomato Salsa in the refrigerator to chill.
- Step 3: Prepare the Southwestern Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and garlic powder until well combined. Set the Southwestern Sauce aside.
- Step 4: Make the Corn Cakes
In a food processor, blend 1 ½ cups of sweet corn with the softened butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the corn masa harina flour and all-purpose flour. Mix until well combined. Form ¼ cup portions of the mixture into patties with your hands.
- Step 5: Cook the Corn Cakes
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the corn cake patties for 3-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Place all the corn cakes on a warmed serving platter. Top each corn cake with a spoonful of the Salsa Verde and Tomato Salsa. Garnish with diced avocado, a drizzle of the Southwestern Sauce, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritional Facts
How to Store
Storing
To keep your leftover Corn Cakes fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Ensure they are completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To preserve the taste and texture of your leftover Corn Cakes, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps maintain their crispiness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze Corn Cakes by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if tomatillos are unavailable, you can substitute them with green tomatoes for a similar tangy flavor in the Salsa Verde.
Absolutely! You can control the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeno or green chilies you use. Add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
Ensure your pan is well-greased with vegetable oil before cooking the corn cakes. Using a non-stick pan also helps prevent sticking.
While it’s best to enjoy the salsas and sauce fresh, you can freeze them in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use and stir well to refresh the textures.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
Salsa Verde:
- 2 tomatillos , diced
- 4 ounces mild green chilies , drained and diced
- 1 green onion , minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro , minced
- 1 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon course ground black pepper
Tomato Salsa:
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon minced onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro , minced
- 1/4 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 small jalapeno , seeded and minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon course ground black pepper
Southwestern Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon water
- 3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Tamale Corn Cakes:
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn
- 1/2 cup butter , softened
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 cup corn masa harina flour (corn flour)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- vegetable oil , for frying
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 avocado , diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro , chopped
Instructions
- Make the salsa verde by putting the tomatillos, mild green chilies, green onion, 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, 1 ¼ teaspoons granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon salt and 1 pinch ground black pepper in a food processor for 5-10 seconds. Put in the refrigerator to chill.
- To make the tomato salsa put the tomatoes, diced onion, 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, ¼ teaspoon lime juice, ½ small jalapeno, 1 dash salt and 1 dash ground black pepper in a food processor for 5-10 seconds. Put in the refrigerator to chill.
- To make the southwestern sauce, put ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, 1 teaspoon water, ¾ teaspoon granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ¼ teaspoon paprika, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, 1 pinch onion powder, 1 dash salt and 1 dash garlic powder in a small bowl and mix.
- To Make the Tamale Cakes, put 1 cup of the frozen corn with the butter, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Blend well. Move the ingredients to a bowl. Add the corn flour, remaining corn and all purpose flour and blend well.
- Measure ¼ cup portions of the mixture and form it into patties with your hands. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to a pan and heat onto medium high. Cook the patties for 3-5 minutes or until browned, flip and continue to cook until browned.
- To assemble, Place all the cakes on a warmed serving platter. Add a spoonful of the salsa verde and pico de gallo salsa. Garnish with diced avocado, the southwestern sauce, cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
- Enjoy! You’ve earned it!
Notes
- Click on the “yield” amount to slide and change the number of servings and the recipe will automatically update!
- To convert measurements to grams, click on the “Metric” option next to “Ingredients” in the recipe card.
Nutrition
Variations
- Spicy Tex-Mex Kick: For those who love heat, add finely chopped jalapenos or even a dash of hot sauce to the corn cake mixture. This will give your corn cakes an extra spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Delight: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or coconut oil, and use egg replacers like flax eggs or applesauce. Ensure your masa harina flour is gluten-free if needed.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add a cheesy twist by mixing in shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or cotija cheese into the corn cake mixture. The melted cheese will create a gooey, delicious surprise inside.
- Protein Power: Incorporate cooked and crumbled chorizo, ground beef, or shredded chicken into the corn cake mixture for a heartier, protein-packed version.
- Sweet Corn Fritters: If you have a sweet tooth, add a bit more sugar to the corn cake mixture and a touch of vanilla extract. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert-like corn fritters.
Photos used in previous versions of this post.
I’m all over that food processor, it’s one of my favorite kitchen tools. These corn cakes look fabulous
Yes! I love it! I have 4 (crazy I know) and I use that one 95% of the time unless I need a smaller one.
I love corncakes… these are especially beautiful – your images are fantastic.
These sound simply heavenly. I don’t go to Cheesecake Factory but these are so simple to make at home.
These look so delicious and you make it look so easy! I can’t wait to try these soon!
OMG these are mouthwatering! I love all of the flavour combos going on here! Beautiful photos!
I love this sort of fresh tasting bite of delicious flavor.
I love how you walked through every step, it’s very easy to follow. I love your photography it’s so clean and the recipe is so yummy looking!
Thanks Sara!
Ok, I should not have viewed this post at 9am. Now, all I can think of is corn cakes for breakfast! Is that wrong? Haha! These look incredible!
These corn cakes look amazing! Pinning for later! Yum!
These corn cakes look so yum! I love anything corn based, so I know I am going to love them!
I haven’t been to Cheesecake factory in forever but we used to get these. Can’t wait to try the recipe! On a side note, I probably watch a little to much reality tv too 🙂
These look so delicious that I can’t wait to make it. Love the salsas with it!
These look so delicious can’t wait to try them.
We just had food at cheesecake factory today and seeing these corn cakes makes me so wanna eat again. Never know they were this simple to make. Great recipe.
Wow! I wish I could eat these now!
Me too!
My big secret is that I HATE corn, but we have so much of it down here that I’m always looking for ways to cook it that I’ll actually enjoy. These corn cakes would not be more up my alley!!
Maybe all the salsa and sour cream will drown out the corn-y nature of it enough! Ha!
Bravo on a wonderful replication of this delicious treat; your photos are stunning!
Thanks!
Sabrina, awesome! Looks for good. And awesome pics too!
Thanks Derek!
We don’t have a Cheesecake Factory here 🙁
I guess I will have to make these to bring CCF to me. Huzzah!
Haha! That is awesome!
I love that you blended some of the corn and left some of it whole. I definitely want to try these!! Go #foodiemamas!! 😉
Yay! I love our little group!
Wow – I’ve never tried these before but they look really, really good! What’s not to love with these summery ingredients?
Thanks Erin!
While I have never had these anywhere before, I love the way they look and would love to try them. They look great and the pics are really nice too!
Thanks Chris! I loved how colorful and bright they were too 🙂
I LOVE corn cakes! This recipe looks perfect, pinning it 🙂
Awesome! Thanks for the pin Renee!
Sabrina, you’re a star! These look fantastic – can I have some please?
Aww how sweet! Thanks Sarah! Come on over! 😉
these look so darn tasty! Im sure they are better than the cheesecake factory version!
Aww thanks Rachel! I like them better 😉
the colors of this meal is shouting make me… love it
Thanks!
I absolutely love the Corn Cakes from Cheesecake Factory. This is such an easy copy cat recipe. I cannot wait to give it a try.
Awesome!!
Your corn cakes look fabulous! I was just curious u used frozen corn was there a reason, right now we have fresh corn coming out our ears could you use fresh corn too? Beautiful pictures too!
Nope, I just had some on hand that was really sweet and I had bought some fresh corn but somehow it smelled off so I ended up tossing 10 ears of it! If you have some nice fresh corn (that doesn’t smell off) by all means use that instead! Fresh is always better!
I always leave your blog feeling hungry. The corn cakes look so pretty and I’m sure they taste as good as they look.
That makes me so happy to hear! I must be doing something right! Thanks 🙂
I have never eaten at the Cheesecake Factory before! These sound like they would be delicious to eat, I love copy cat recipes!
It is a lot of fun, they have a huge menu!
Wowzer! These look so yummy! I love a good copycat recipe!
Thanks Aimee!
Can you believe that I have never been to Cheesecake Factory. I need to try your creation. 🙂
Woah! I thought everyone had been to one, I feel like every mall I’ve been to has one, haha.
I have never had one of these before. They look fabulous though.
Thanks Aubrey!
Salted Caramel Popcorn looks so delicious. I will have to make some for our next movie night.
Her recipe is great! I hope you love it!
I have never tried Corn Cakes before. They look so delicious. I will have to get my kids to help me make the recipe. I am teaching them how to cook.
Thanks Ann! I hope you all love it!
These Corn Cakes look so amazing. I will have to give the recipe a try. I love making copy cat recipes.
Thanks Elizabeth!
I haven’t seen how big the portions are at the Cheesecake Factory lol! I have to say those avocados look so good on these corn cakes.
Oh they are huge. I think the plates count as platters in most homes, haha.
OH MY GOSH, those look so good. I can’t say I’ve had this dish at TCF before, but who cares, I want this one.
Thanks Michelle! It is easy to miss a dish there, I think the menu is 20 pages long!
Damn you, Sabrina! I always see your emails and think, “Oh I’ve never had that before, totally don’t need to make it”, and then I click on the link and by the second paragraph I’m totally hooked! Saved another of your recipes to my Paprika to make soon… 🙂
Yay! Mission accomplished! haha.
Oh my goodness, these sound amazing. I haven’t tried them at The Cheesecake Factory, but I want yours 🙂 LOL..
I take that as a huge compliment! Thanks Shauna!
Oh yum, I love corn cakes, these look amazing!
Thanks Joy!
I have never had the restaurant version but your beautiful photos sold me! I can’t wait to give this a try. Thanks!
Thanks Mirlanda! I hope you love them!
I’m the same way when it comes to restaurants. Once I find a dish I like, I have to order it every time! This one looks amazing!
Yup! Who can risk trying something new and not being as happy, haha.
Oh my gosh, these look SO good. I am a sucker for any Cheesecake Factory copycat dishes.
Me too! I have a few of them up my sleeve!
I’ve never had corn cakes before but these look absolutely amazing! I’m definitely going to have to try these soon!
Paige
Thanks Paige! I hope you love them!
I just ate at the Cheesecake Factory the other day! I had a burger and nachos with my mom. These look way too good for their own good!
Oooh nachos! I have never tried their nachos but I bet they are amazing!
I’m quite literally giddy over this! I LOVE these things! Now I can make them myself 😉
Yay! I’m so happy to hear that!
Those look so yummy! I love anything corn based, and I’m always excited to try a new copycat recipe.
Thanks Jennifer! I definitely love recreating my favorite restaurant dishes, it is a fun game I play anytime I find a new one I love.
That looks absolutely incredible! You have me eating my screen. My family would eat these up the second I would take them out of the pan. We might have to try this one soon.
Thanks Jeanette!
Looks delicious, love the colors and the pictures! Another hit at dinner then dessert, well done!
Haha, thanks Florian!