Johnny Cakes
Johnny Cakes are crispy, golden griddle pancakes with a sweet corn flavor, perfect for breakfast or brunch, served with syrup, jam, or honey for added sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg, sugar, and 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon butter flavor Crisco in a medium bowl.
- Stir in sour milk and baking soda.
- Add flour, cornmeal, and salt.
- Stir just until dry ingredients are moistened.
- Cover and let stand in a cool place for 30 minutes.
- Pour remaining shortening on griddle or in a large skillet.
- Heat on medium heat.
- Spoon tablespoonfuls of batter onto the griddle.
- Brown on one side.
- Turn and brown on the other side.
- Serve with syrup, jam, or honey.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with cornmeal, adding a delightful crunch. If you don't have sour milk, you can make it by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. Ensure the batter is not overmixed to keep the Johnny Cakes fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Cakes warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for a classic touch, or try topping them with jam or honey for a sweet twist. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or yogurt on the side, making them a versatile option for breakfast or brunch. For a heartier meal, serve alongside Lizzie'S Baked Spaghetti.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Johnny Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Cakes contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 677mg per serving (29% 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 regular milk instead of sour milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to it and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This will create a similar acidic environment as sour milk, helping the baking soda to activate properly.
What can I substitute for Crisco?
If you prefer not to use Crisco, you can substitute with an equal amount of melted unsalted butter or vegetable oil. Keep in mind that butter will add a rich flavor, while oil will keep the cakes moist.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it's best to use the batter fresh for the best texture, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then let it come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
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).