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This johnny cakes recipe is so versatile and only uses pantry staples.

Where did Johnny Cakes originate?

The first time I ever heard of Johnny Cakes was when reading the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. My Mamaw made a similar version, but they were made as a side dish to go with dinner.She called them by a different name, but the concept was the same. Historically, Johnny Cakes first appeared in print in 1793 in a cookbook called American Cookery. However, they were most likely being cooked much earlier.

Rhode Island claims the original recipe. However, today people make johnny cakes in many different ways. Some recipes call for water, while others call for milk. Johnny cakes can be made more like a cake and others like a modern pancake. Johnny Cakes can be made to be a sweet and simple breakfast, topped with a little syrup and butter. Or, they can be made to go alongside savory bean recipes or in place of traditional cornbread.

Johnny Cakes also go by many names. You may recognize them by the name “Hoe Cakes”. Others call them “journey cakes” and “shawnee cakes”. Still, they are called by many other names in regions all over the world.

What ingredients are in Johnny Cakes?

This Johnny Cakes Recipe is made with simple staple ingredients you probably have on hand in your pantry. They make a delicious frugal snack, breakfast or side dish.

• Cornmeal
• All purpose flour
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Milk OR Buttermilk
• Eggs
• Lard OR butter
• Lard (for cooking)

Variations

This version of the johnny cakes recipe is not the oldest around. Older versions of this recipe make the johnny cakes more like an actual cake. These are more like a modern pancake. This version of johnny cakes is very versatile.

If you want, you can add frozen fruit to make them more like berry pancakes. Also, another great addition would be your favorite herbs and spices if you want to use them in savory recipes.

This recipe would be particularly fun to make with kids when learning about American pioneers.

For dairy free johnny cakes, use your favorite milk alternative, and swap the fats for coconut oil. Flax eggs may replace the eggs in this recipe too.

How to make johnny cakes

This recipe is very easy to make, especially if you are used to making pancakes. Start by whisking your dry ingredients together. Next, add your melted lard (or butter), eggs and milk (or buttermilk).

Mix until just combined. You don’t want to over mix, just as with pancakes. Add any additions you may like and cook up in hot fat, flipping when one side is done and bubble are forming on the upside.

Recipe

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup all purpose flour

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 cup buttermilk

2 eggs

1/4 cup lard + additional for frying

1. Start by combining your cornmeal, flour, baking powder and salt. Whisk well.
2. Next melt your lard and let cool for a couple of minutes. Add the lard along with the eggs and buttermilk.
3. Mix until just combined. Heat a skillet on medium heat and melt enough lard or butter to coat the pan.
4. Pour your batter out about 1/4 cup at a time per johnny cake. I can fit four easily into a 12″ cast iron pan.
5. Once the johnny cakes are bubbling all over the top, flip and continue to cook for a couple more minutes.
6. Top with butter and syrup or dip in your favorite savory bean dish. Enjoy!

Tips:

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe. I think fresh herbs mixed into the batter would make a delicious addition!
• If you want a sweeter johnny cake, add two tablespoons of sugar or honey to the batter.
• Be sure to allow the lard to cool before pouring into the batter. Otherwise you may cook your eggs.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily sour milk by adding 1 tbsp. of lemon juice or vinegar. Stir and let sit 5 minutes and you’ve got an easy buttermilk replacement!