Pioneer Johnnycake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

A hearty and sweet Johnnycake featuring cornmeal and molasses, perfect for breakfast or snack. Crispy crust with tender interior, appealing to all who love classic comfort foods.

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Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 c. buttermilk
  • 2 Tbsp. molasses or honey
  • 2 c. cornmeal
  • 1/2 c. flour
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 2 Tbsp. butter

Instructions

  1. Beat eggs until light.
  2. Add buttermilk and molasses or honey. Combine.
  3. Mix dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, soda).
  4. Stir dry ingredients into wet mixture.
  5. Add melted butter and mix well.
  6. Pour batter into a buttered dripper pan.
  7. Bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes or until done.
  8. Cut into large squares to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a slightly sweeter version, substitute the molasses with honey. If you want a denser texture, use stone-ground cornmeal. Ensure the buttermilk is at room temperature for better mixing. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or spices like cinnamon. This recipe pairs beautifully with American recipes that focus on hearty, rustic flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm, topped with butter and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. It pairs well with mixed vegetables baked or a side of fresh fruit for breakfast. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty stew or chili.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Johnnycake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place squares in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 20 seconds, but be cautious not to dry them out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pioneer Johnnycake contains roughly 176 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.

176 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.4g 7% DV
Total Fat 3.7g 5% DV
Carbs 32.9g 12% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 1.2g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 140.8mg 6% DV
Potassium 191.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 59.4mg 20% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 24.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 69.9mg 5% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 use regular milk; however, to mimic the acidity of buttermilk, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the cornmeal is labeled gluten-free as well to avoid cross-contamination.

What can I add to this recipe for more flavor?

You can enhance the flavor by adding vanilla extract or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Additionally, incorporating fresh berries or chopped nuts into the batter can provide a delightful twist.

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).

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