Delicious Johnny Cakes Recipe: Easy Southern Comfort

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Growing up in the South, the smell of Johnny cakes always brings back good memories. The sizzling sound of cornmeal, the golden-brown edges, and the fluffy texture are what Southern cooking is all about. Today, I’m excited to share a simple, low-carb Johnny cakes recipe that brings back those family moments.

Johnny cakes, also known as hoe cakes or journey cakes, are a Southern favorite. They’re loved for their unique flavor and satisfying texture. This recipe uses almond flour and unsweetened Greek yogurt for a healthier version, just as tasty as the traditional cornmeal cakes.

Key Takeaways

Johnny cakes have been a staple of Southern culinary traditions since the 1700s.
This low-carb recipe uses almond flour and Greek yogurt for a healthier version of the classic cornmeal cakes.
The recipe yields fluffy, golden-brown Johnny cakes with crispy edges.
Serving suggestions include topping the cakes with butter, syrup, honey, and a variety of other sweet or savory options.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

What are Johnny Cakes?

Johnny cakes, also known as hoe cakes or lace cornbread, are a traditional Southern comfort food. They come from native American cuisine. These small, hand-sized fried cornmeal cakes are a mix of cornbread and pancakes.

They have a fluffy inside and crispy outside. This texture is loved by many in the South.

Traditional Southern Cornmeal Cakes

The name “Rhode Island johnnycake” first appeared in print in 1739. An 1835 political cartoon by James Akin called johnnycake “the stamina of the South.” Johnnycakes have strong ties to native American foods.

The johnnycake is believed to have been originally named Shawnee cakes or journey cakes for its portability.

Fluffy Texture and Crispy Edges

The johnnycakes are often compared to cornbread but are more like a cornmeal flatbread. They are cooked on a griddle or sometimes baked in the oven. The journey cake is known for its ability to remain fresh and edible for several days.

This makes it a practical snack for travels. The name “Johnny Cake” is a distortion of the original term. It reflects its adoption into many Caribbean cultures.

The johnnycake recipe typically includes 300 grams of wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 large spoonful of sugar, 2 large spoonfuls of butter, a pinch of salt, and water to moisten the dough. The recipe yields twelve small bread loaves.

Journey cakes are best enjoyed warm. They have a slightly crispy exterior and tender interior.

A Brief History of Johnny Cakes

Johnny cakes have a long history in America, dating back to the early settlements. These cornmeal cakes were a favorite among early American settlers since the 1700s, especially in the Southern culinary traditions. They were made by pioneers and cowboys when wheat flour was hard to find.

Today, Johnny cakes are still loved in America. They are enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or dinner. They can be topped with maple syrup or savory ingredients, showing their versatility. This makes them a key part of our diverse food heritage.

The term “johnny cake” first appeared in 1739 in South Carolina. The term “hoecake” was mentioned in 1745. Over time, Johnny cakes have changed, with rice or hominy flour versions becoming popular in the American South in the 18th century. Now, these cornmeal cakes are loved by food lovers everywhere.

“Johnny cakes have been a staple for early American settlers since the 1700s, showcasing their enduring place in our culinary traditions.”

Johnny Cakes Recipe: Ingredients

This Johnny Cakes recipe is a mix of old and new. It uses coarse almond flour or almond meal for a cornmeal-like texture. Baking powder makes the cakes light and fluffy, while eggs hold everything together.

Heavy whipping cream adds a creamy touch, and unsweetened Greek yogurt makes them smooth and protein-rich. Melted butter gives a buttery flavor, and a bit of sugar substitute adds sweetness. A pinch of salt balances the taste, and optional butter extract enhances the buttery flavor.

Coarse Almond Flour or Meal

Almond flour or meal gives the cakes a coarse texture. This nut-based flour adds a nutty flavor and a hearty texture.

Baking Powder for Fluffiness

Baking powder is the key to making the cakes light and fluffy. It helps them rise and gives a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Creamy Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein to the batter. Its tangy flavor complements the other ingredients, making a balanced and satisfying Johnny Cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making johnny cakes is easy and fun. First, mix the dry ingredients like almond flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt in a bowl. Then, mix the wet ingredients like eggs, heavy whipping cream, unsweetened Greek yogurt, melted butter, and sugar substitute until smooth.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently. The mix should be thick but still pourable. Heat a griddle or skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat. Use a cup or ladle to make round pancakes on the hot surface.

Cook the johnny cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden and crispy.
Flip them carefully to cook evenly.
Move the cooked cakes to a warm plate or baking sheet.

Finally, serve the johnny cakes warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fruit compote, or whipped cream. Enjoy these fluffy, golden treats!

Ingredient	Quantity
Almond Flour	2 cups
Baking Powder	2 teaspoons
Eggs	2
Heavy Whipping Cream	1/2 cup
Unsweetened Greek Yogurt	1/2 cup
Melted Butter	2 tablespoons
Sugar Substitute	2 tablespoons
Salt	1/4 teaspoon

To make perfect johnny cakes, watch them closely. Adjust the heat to get that golden-brown outside and soft inside.

“These johnny cakes are a true taste of Southern comfort. The combination of the crispy edges and the soft, fluffy center is simply divine.”

Serving Suggestions

Johnny cakes are a versatile Southern comfort food. They can be enjoyed from breakfast to dinner. Their fluffy texture and crispy edges make them a delightful addition to various dishes.

Breakfast, Brunch, or Dinner

Start your day with a stack of johnny cakes. Top them with butter, maple syrup, or honey. They also pair well with eggs, bacon, and sausage for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

For a more savory option, serve your johnny cakes with creamy soups. Try them with turkey chili or pulled barbecue chicken or pork. This adds a delicious textural contrast to your meal.

Versatile Toppings

Butter
Maple syrup
Honey
Apple butter
Cheese (such as cheddar or pepper jack)
Bacon
Jalapeños

The beauty of johnny cakes lies in their versatility. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, the options are endless. Top them with your favorite toppings for a customized Southern comfort food experience, perfect for any time of day.

“Johnny cakes are a true Southern classic that can elevate any meal, from breakfast to dinner. The combination of fluffy cornmeal and crispy edges makes them a delightful canvas for a variety of sweet and savory toppings.”

Nutrition Facts

This healthier version of johnny cakes is packed with good stuff. It uses low-carb cornbread and almond flour, making each serving about 31g of carbs. This is less than the old recipe. Plus, adding creamy Greek yogurt boosts the protein to 6g per serving.

But, these johnny cakes aren’t super low in calories or fat. Each serving has 226 calories and 9g of fat. While better than the original, they should still be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Using a sugar substitute and less butter makes this recipe healthier. But, remember to watch your portion sizes. Don’t think of these johnny cakes as a health food you can eat all you want.

Nutrition Facts	Per Serving
Calories	226
Total Carbs	31g
Protein	6g
Total Fat	9g

In summary, this healthier johnny cakes recipe is a good choice over the traditional one. It’s a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. The use of low-carb ingredients and added protein makes it a more nutritious option.

Making Johnny Cakes Healthier

If you want to enjoy johnny cakes without the guilt, there are easy changes you can make. Try using almond flour and cornmeal for a lower-carb option. This swap not only cuts carbs but also adds a nutty taste and texture. Or, choose gluten-free self-rising flour for a fluffy, tender crumb.

To make them even healthier, swap Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for buttermilk or cream. These alternatives add creaminess and tanginess without extra carbs or calories. And, using a sugar substitute reduces sweetness and carbs.

Use almond flour and cornmeal for a low-carb version
Swap gluten-free self-rising flour for a gluten-free option
Replace buttermilk or cream with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
Incorporate a sugar substitute to reduce calories and carbs

These simple swaps let you enjoy johnny cakes while making them healthier. Try different ingredients to find the perfect mix of taste and nutrition for you.

Johnny cakes recipe

Are you craving a taste of traditional Southern comfort food? This easy johnny cakes recipe is perfect. These cornmeal johnny cakes are light and fluffy with crispy edges. They’re great for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side dish.

The secret to these delightful johnny cakes is the unique blend of ingredients. We’ve mixed coarse almond flour, whipped cream, tangy Greek yogurt, and a touch of butter. This creates a flavor and texture that’s irresistible. The result is a fluffy johnny cakes with a crispy exterior, perfect with stews, roasted chicken, or as a tasty snack.

This traditional southern johnny cakes recipe will become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting taste of this Southern classic in your own home.

Ingredients:

3 cups corn kernels, cut from 3 ears of corn (about 3 cups)
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup fine ground cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
Fresh ground pepper to taste
Maple syrup for topping (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, buttermilk, butter, and fresh thyme. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of fresh ground pepper.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the corn mixture, being careful not to overmix.
Scoop the batter onto a greased baking sheet, forming 6 equal-sized johnny cakes.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the johnny cakes are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve the johnny cakes warm, with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Enjoy this delicious johnny cakes recipe and savor the comforting flavors of the South!

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Making tasty and crispy johnny cakes is easy with a few tips. First, preheat your skillet or griddle well before adding the batter. This step is key for a golden-brown, crunchy outside. Grease the pan with 1-2 tablespoons of butter or oil to prevent sticking.

When adding the batter, leave enough space between each cake. This helps them cook evenly without sticking together. Use a spatula to flip the johnny cakes gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden and cooked through.

For the best flavor and texture, serve the johnny cakes hot. Try mixing all-purpose flour with cornmeal for extra taste. Letting the batter rest before cooking can also help. Frying in hot bacon drippings adds a special flavor.

How to Flip Johnny Cakes

Use a spatula to gently slide under the johnny cakes and flip them over.
Avoid using a fork or other utensils that may tear the delicate johnny cakes.
Flip the johnny cakes in one smooth motion, taking care not to break them.

Reheating Johnny Cakes

For best results, reheat johnny cakes in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat.
You can also warm them up in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Avoid microwaving johnny cakes, as this can make them tough and chewy.

By following these simple tips for cooking johnny cakes, you’ll make crispy, flavorful johnny cakes every time. Enjoy your homemade southern comfort food!

Storage and Reheating

Johnny cakes are best enjoyed fresh. They have crisp edges and a fluffy inside. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for 1-2 days.

To reheat your johnny cakes, you have a few options. Place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. This keeps them crispy.

For a quicker option, microwave the johnny cakes for 30-60 seconds. This method keeps them light and fluffy.

Whether you choose to bake or microwave, you can enjoy johnny cakes again and again. Just follow a few simple steps to store johnny cakes and enjoy them whenever you want.

Conclusion

This easy and delicious johnny cakes recipe brings back the flavors of Southern comfort food. These cornmeal cakes are fluffy and crispy, loved for breakfast, brunch, or as a side. A mix of almond flour, Greek yogurt, and butter makes this version healthier but still tastes like the classic.

Whether you add sweet or savory toppings, johnny cakes will be a hit. They offer homemade comfort that’s a Southern specialty. Enjoy the taste of this Southern classic.

The recipe is versatile, great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s healthier with almond flour and Greek yogurt but keeps the Southern taste. Try different toppings like maple syrup or fried eggs to make it your own.

Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of the South with this johnny cakes recipe. These cakes are fluffy and crispy, taking you back to simpler times. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side, becoming a family favorite.

FAQ

What are johnny cakes?

Johnny cakes are a Southern comfort food with Native American roots. They are small, fried cornmeal cakes, like a mix of cornbread and pancakes. They have a fluffy inside and crispy outside, loved by many in the South.

What is the history of johnny cakes?

Johnny cakes have been a staple since the 1700s. Early settlers made them because they had limited wheat flour. Today, they are a beloved part of Southern cuisine, enjoyed at any meal.

What are the key ingredients in this johnny cakes recipe?

This recipe combines traditional and modern elements. It uses coarse almond flour for a cornmeal-like texture. Baking powder and eggs ensure a fluffy rise. Heavy whipping cream and unsweetened Greek yogurt add richness and smoothness. Melted butter and sugar substitute enhance the flavor.

How do you make johnny cakes?

Making johnny cakes is easy and fun. Whisk together dry ingredients until just combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. Cook on a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat, until golden brown.

What are some serving suggestions for johnny cakes?

Johnny cakes are versatile and can be enjoyed at any meal. They pair well with eggs, turkey chili, creamy soups, and pulled barbecue. For a sweet treat, top with butter, maple syrup, or honey. For something savory, try cheese, bacon, or jalapeños.

How healthy are these johnny cakes?

This version of johnny cakes is healthier, using low-carb cornbread and almond flour. Each serving has about 31g of carbs. Greek yogurt adds 6g of protein. However, they have 226 calories and 9g of fat per serving.

How can I make johnny cakes even healthier?

To make johnny cakes healthier, try a few swaps. Use almond flour and cornmeal for a low-carb version. Swap buttermilk or cream with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Cutting down on butter and using a sugar substitute can also reduce calories and carbs.