Johnnycake (Cornbread)
A hearty, slightly sweet cornbread with rich molasses flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a side dish with hearty stews and soups, appealing to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking dish or skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg.
- Add molasses or sugar and molasses to the egg and mix well.
- Stir in buttermilk.
- Melt shortening and add to the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, and soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet.
- Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting honey for some or all of the molasses. You can also use milk instead of buttermilk, but adding a bit of vinegar will help mimic the acidity. To ensure the best texture, do not overmix the batter; it should be lumpy but combined. If you desire a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly. These tips will help you achieve a delicious Johnnycake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Johnnycake warm, topped with butter and honey for a delightful breakfast or snack. It pairs beautifully with Congenial Salad(Mrs. Newel Nesmith'S Recipe) for lunch, or alongside soups and stews for dinner. For a sweet twist, try it with fruit preserves or alongside a bowl of ice cream for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Johnnycake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it can last up to a week. To reheat, simply place slices in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnnycake (Cornbread) contains roughly 558 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% 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 buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk. To mimic the tanginess of buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using it in the recipe.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the Johnnycake?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in corn kernels or jalapeños for a savory version. Experimenting with different add-ins can give your Johnnycake a unique twist!
How do I know when the Johnnycake is done baking?
The Johnnycake is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It should have a slight spring when gently pressed. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).