Could I use corn meal instead of bread crumbs?

Corn meal would add a bit more of a crunch to the outside of the cake than the breadcrumbs. To me, not objectionable at all! Definitely let us all know how you like it.

So interesting—I've never tried it but it sounds delicious (finer cornmeal does seem wise). I would do a test run to be safe, and if you do let us know how it goes!