This Southern Hoe Cakes recipe is a classic comfort food favorite with a crispy golden exterior and a soft, tender center. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these traditional cornmeal cakes are quick to prepare and perfect for breakfast, as a side dish, or served with honey, butter, or syrup for a delicious Southern-inspired treat.
Prep Time: 5minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup water plus more if needed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon drippings for frying
Instructions
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the buttermilk, water, and melted butter.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms. If the batter seems too thick, add a little extra water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
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Heat the vegetable oil or bacon drippings in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Scoop about ¼ cup of batter per hoe cake into the hot skillet. Gently flatten each one with the back of a spoon.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
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Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly.
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Serve warm with butter, honey, maple syrup, or alongside beans, greens, or fried chicken.