Johnny Bakes
Golden, flaky baked or fried bread rolls with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to those who enjoy comforting, homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients into a bowl, then rub in the fat until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Pour milk in and stir to make a soft dough.
- Knead on a floured board, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Break the dough into lemon-sized pieces, roll into balls, and flatten to 1/2 inch or 1 centimeter thickness.
- Fry these in hot oil until golden or bake in a hot oven, gas mark 7, 425°F or 220°C.
- While still hot, tear bakes open and butter generously.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, consider using butter instead of lard for a richer flavor. If you want to add a hint of sweetness, a tablespoon of honey can be mixed into the milk. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a golden-brown color. If you prefer a healthier option, baking the bakes instead of frying will reduce the fat content. This recipe pairs beautifully with Sue'S Cherry Cream Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Bakes warm, split open, and generously buttered. They make a delightful breakfast or snack and can be paired with jams, honey, or even savory options like cheese. A fresh fruit salad complements them well, and for a dessert twist, try serving alongside Frozen Cupcakes for a fun treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Johnny Bakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick microwave for about 10-15 seconds can work if you’re in a hurry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Bakes contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2230mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular flour to make the recipe healthier. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour can absorb more moisture. Start by adding a little extra milk until you reach the desired dough consistency.
What is the best way to tell if the oil is hot enough for frying?
A simple test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready. Alternatively, you can use a kitchen thermometer; the oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
Can I add different flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of the dough by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist. Experimenting with flavorings can give your Johnny Bakes a unique touch tailored to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).