Hoe Cake Recipe
Hoe Cake Recipe, also known as Johnny cakes or fried cornbread, are a classic Southern dish that combines simplicity and flavor. These cornmeal-based griddle cakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect as a side dish or snack. Whether paired with butter, syrup, or savory toppings, hoe cakes are a versatile addition to any meal.
Table of Contents
Hoe Cake Recipe Servings
Serves 8 people.
Estimated Cost
Approximately $5–7 USD for the entire recipe.
Prep Time
10 minutes.
Cooking Time
15 minutes.
Course
Side dish or main accompaniment.
Cuisine
Southern American.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Cast iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or homemade substitute: milk + lemon juice/vinegar)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the batter by whisking together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, and water; whisk until smooth. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and fluffy.
Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Using a ladle or small scoop, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each hoe cake. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
Serve immediately with butter, syrup, or honey for a sweet option—or pair with savory dishes like gravy or fried chicken for a hearty meal.
Calories
Approximately 100 kcal per serving.
Recipe Notes
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes before using. Bacon grease can be used instead of vegetable oil for added flavor. Add-ins like chopped jalapeños, grated cheese, or minced onions can enhance the flavor profile.
