Johnny Cakes Recipe

Introduction

Johnny Cakes are a simple, comforting cornmeal flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they offer a delightful blend of flavors with a humble list of ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk; use more for thinner johnny cakes)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons oil (or butter or lard, for cooking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt until combined.
2. Step 2: Stir in the beaten eggs, buttermilk (or milk), and water until you have a thick batter. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the dry ingredients to hydrate.
3. Step 3: Heat a little oil in a large pan over medium heat.
4. Step 4: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan for each johnny cake. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Step 5: Remove the cooked johnny cakes and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.
6. Step 6: Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try cooking johnny cakes in butter or lard instead of oil.
• Use buttermilk for a tangier taste and lighter texture; whole milk works as a substitute.
• If the batter is too thick, add a bit more water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Add a pinch of sugar or cinnamon for a subtly sweet twist.

Storage

Store leftover johnny cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for texture, but you can try whole wheat flour for a heartier taste. Keep in mind this may slightly change the texture and color.

What can I serve with johnny cakes?

Johnny Cakes pair wonderfully with butter, honey, maple syrup, or savory toppings like eggs, bacon, or chili for a complete meal.

Johnny Cakes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 123 reviews

Classic Johnny Cakes are a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast treat combining the flavors of cornmeal and all-purpose flour. These golden, pan-fried cakes have a crispy exterior and a soft, tender inside, perfect for serving with butter, syrup, or your favorite toppings. This recipe uses simple ingredients like eggs, buttermilk, and a hint of baking powder to create a thick batter cooked to perfection on the stovetop.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 johnny cakes 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk, add more if a thinner batter is desired)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons oil (or butter or lard, for cooking)

Instructions

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Stir together until evenly mixed.
2. Make the Batter: Add the beaten eggs, buttermilk (or milk), and water to the dry mixture. Stir until a thick batter forms. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the dry ingredients to fully hydrate.
3. Heat the Pan: Warm a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, spreading it evenly to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Johnny Cakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per cake into the heated pan. Cook each for about 5 minutes on one side, or until nicely browned and edges begin to dry. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Repeat and Serve: Remove the cooked johnny cakes from the pan and keep warm. Add more oil to the pan as needed and repeat cooking with remaining batter. Serve warm with butter, syrup, or your preferred toppings.

Notes

• Use buttermilk for a tangier flavor and tender texture; regular milk works fine as a substitute.
• If you prefer thinner johnny cakes, add a bit more milk or water to the batter until desired consistency is reached.
• Cooking on medium heat helps to evenly brown the cakes without burning.
• Adjust salt to taste depending on dietary preferences.
• Johnny cakes can be served with sweet toppings like maple syrup or savory ones like cheese and herbs.

Keywords: Johnny Cakes, cornmeal pancakes, breakfast recipe, Southern cuisine, easy skillet cakes