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Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes Recipe

Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes Recipe


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4.5 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy southern cornmeal hoecakes bring rustic charm to breakfast tables with their golden-brown edges and hearty flavor. These traditional skillet-fried corn cakes offer simple comfort that connects you directly to southern culinary heritage.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 2/3 cup (160 ml) cornmeal
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) self-rising flour
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) low-fat buttermilk

Cooking Liquid:

  • Oil for frying (coconut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. Create a smooth, well-blended cornmeal batter by combining dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls.
  2. Whisk cornmeal and self-rising flour together, then incorporate buttermilk and egg until the mixture reaches a consistent, pourable texture.
  3. Adjust batter consistency with additional buttermilk if it appears too thick or dense.
  4. Prepare a skillet by heating it over medium temperature and coating the bottom with a thin layer of oil.
  5. Test oil readiness by dropping a small amount of batter, which should immediately sizzle upon contact.
  6. Carefully spoon batter into the hot skillet, forming small circular shapes approximately 2-3 inches wide.
  7. Allow hoecakes to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges turn golden and crispy.
  8. Gently flip each hoecake using a spatula and cook the opposite side until achieving an even, rich brown color.
  9. Remove hoecakes from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by classic toppings like butter, honey, jam, or paired with savory options such as ham or fried chicken.

Notes

  • Customize the batter’s consistency by adjusting buttermilk, ensuring a perfect pourable texture that creates crispy, light hoecakes.
  • Prevent sticking and achieve an even golden-brown crust by using a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan with consistent medium heat.
  • Experiment with gluten-free flour alternatives like almond or rice flour to make the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining the traditional Southern texture.
  • Enhance flavor profiles by incorporating herbs like chives or spices such as smoked paprika into the batter for a unique twist on the classic hoecake recipe.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern (American)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg