Growing up in the South, the smell of fresh Johnny cakes always brings back family memories. The sizzle of cornmeal, the golden edges, and the fluffy texture are unforgettable. Today, I’m excited to share a simple, low-carb Johnny cakes recipe that brings back those cherished moments.
Johnny cakes, also known as hoe cakes or journey cakes, are fried cornbread cakes. They have a fluffy inside and crispy outside, loved by many in the South. This recipe uses almond flour and unsweetened Greek yogurt for a healthier version that’s just as tasty.
Searching for even more delicious Cake recipes? Try my “Cake Recipes“.
Key Takeaways
- Easy, low-carb Johnny cakes recipe with a healthy twist
- Captures the nostalgic flavors of Southern comfort food
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like almond flour and Greek yogurt
- Slightly fluffy texture and crispy edges for a classic Johnny cakes experience
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side dish
Table of Contents
What are Johnny Cakes?
also known as hoe cakes or lace cornbread, are a traditional Southern comfort food. They have roots in Native American cuisine. These small, hand-sized fried cornmeal cakes are a mix of cornbread and pancakes.
They have a texture that’s not as dense as true flatbread but not as fluffy as a typical pancake.
A Brief History of Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes have been a staple for early American settlers since the 1700s. These simple yet delicious cakes were often made by pioneers and cowboys. They relied on cornmeal because they had limited access to wheat flour.
Over time, Johnny cakes have remained a beloved part of Southern culinary traditions. They are still enjoyed as a breakfast, brunch, or dinner dish.
The versatility of Johnny cakes is shown through the variety of toppings and serving suggestions. From classic options like butter and maple syrup to more savory choices like cheese or chili. The rustic appeal of these buttermilk-based cakes, with their enticing aroma and unique flavor profile, has solidified their status as a quintessential Southern comfort food.
Johnny Cakes Recipe: Ingredients
This recipe combines traditional and modern elements. It starts with coarse ground almond flour or meal. This gives johnny cakes their unique cornmeal-like texture.
Baking powder is key for the perfect rise and fluffy texture. Eggs help bind the batter. Heavy whipping cream adds a rich, creamy touch.
Unsweetened Greek yogurt makes the finish smooth and protein-rich. Melted butter brings a delicious buttery flavor. A bit of granulated sugar substitute adds sweetness.
A sprinkle of salt balances the flavors. Adding butter extract (optional) can enhance the buttery taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coarse ground almond flour or meal | 2 cups (240 g) |
| Baking powder | 4 teaspoons |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1/2 cup (4 oz) |
| Unsweetened Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup (4 oz) |
| Melted butter | 1 tablespoon (14 g) |
| Granulated sugar substitute | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter extract (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these delightful how to make johnny cakes is easy and fun. It results in tender, flavorful treats. Let’s go through the cooking instructions step by step:
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure the dry ingredients mix well before moving on.
Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
Combining and Cooking
Pour the damp fixings into the dry fixings bowl. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Preheat a lightly oiled griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Use a spoon or ladle to scoop the batter onto the hot surface, forming circular pancakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Flip carefully for even cooking.
Once the johnny cakes are done, place them on a plate. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or accompaniments, like maple syrup, apple butter, or fried chicken.
Follow these simple cooking instructions to make delicious how to make johnny cakes quickly. Appreciate the comforting flavors of this classic Southern dish!
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast, Brunch, or Dinner
Johnny cakes are great for any meal, from breakfast to dinner. They go well with eggs, turkey chili, creamy soups, and pulled barbecue chicken or pork. They add a tasty touch to your meal.
Top your johnny cakes with butter, maple syrup, honey, or apple butter for a sweet treat. For something savory, try cheese, bacon, or jalapeños. This makes them a perfect southern comfort food.
Johnny cakes are a crowd-pleaser at any meal. They’re versatile and can be customized with many toppings. This lets you make them your own, no matter the occasion.
Nutrition Facts
This healthier version of johnny cakes has some good points. It uses low carb cornbread and almond flour to keep carbs low. Each serving has about 31g of carbs. Greek yogurt adds 6g of protein to each serving.
But, it’s not a super healthy food. It has 226 calories and 9g of fat per serving. Still, using a sugar substitute and less butter makes it better than the old version.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 226 |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 628mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
This johnny cakes recipe is a better choice than the old one. But, it’s not super low in calories or fat. Eat it in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Making Johnny Cakes Healthier
Johnny cakes are a beloved Southern comfort food. You can make them more beneficial with a few basic swaps. This way, you can enjoy them without feeling guilty, whether you’re watching carbs or need gluten-free options.
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Options
For a low-carb version, try using almond flour and cornmeal instead of all-purpose flour. This mix lowers carbs and adds a nutty flavor and texture. You can also use gluten-free self-rising flour for a similar taste and fluffy texture.
To make them even healthier, swap buttermilk or cream with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. These high-protein options add creaminess and tanginess without extra carbs or calories. Cutting down on butter and using a sugar substitute can also reduce calories and carbs.
These easy swaps let you enjoy the taste of healthy johnny cakes, low carb johnny cakes, and gluten free johnny cakes while making them better for your diet.
johnny cakes recipe
Craving Southern comfort food? Try this easy johnny cake recipe. These cornmeal cakes are loved for their light texture and crispy edges. They’re great for breakfast, brunch, or as a side.
The secret to these treats is the mix of ingredients. Coarse almond flour, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, and a bit of butter make them guilt-free yet nutritious. The result is a flavor and texture that will make you want more.
These johnny cakes pair well with stews, roasted chicken, or as a snack. They’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting taste of this Southern classic at home.
Ingredients for the Best Johnny Cakes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg (optional)
Instructions for Perfectly Fluffy Johnny Cakes
- Whisk together the flour, sugar, preparing powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until the blend takes after coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the milk and egg (if using) until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat a softly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop the batter onto the hot surface, forming 3-inch rounds.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until brilliant brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, with your favorite toppings like butter, syrup, or fruit compote.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
Enjoy this classic johnny cake recipe and savor Southern comfort food. These best johnny cakes are perfect for brunch or as a versatile side dish.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To make johnny cakes crispy and flavorful, follow a few easy steps. First, heat your skillet or griddle well before adding the batter. This step is key for that golden-brown, crunchy outside everyone loves. Use 1-2 tablespoons of butter or oil to grease the pan.
When you scoop the batter, leave space between each cake. This prevents them from sticking together. Use a spatula to gently flip the cakes, being careful not to break them. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden and cooked through.
Serve the johnny cakes hot for the best taste and texture. The crispy outside and fluffy inside are perfect when fresh from the skillet. Feel free to try different toppings like maple syrup, honey, or even bacon or cheese.
Additional Tips for Perfecting Your Johnny Cakes
- Use a mix of all-purpose flour and cornmeal for the best texture.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the cornmeal to fully hydrate.
- Adjust the sugar to your liking, or skip it for a savory version.
- Fry the johnny cakes in hot bacon drippings for extra flavor.
- Try gluten-free or low-carb flour alternatives, like almond flour, for healthier options.
By following these tips and how-to-cook johnny cakes methods, you’ll get perfectly crispy, golden-brown cakes every time. Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting dinner side dish.
Storage and Reheating
Johnny cakes are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet. They have crisp edges and a fluffy inside. But, you might have leftovers you want to save. Don’t worry, these Southern treats can be stored and reheated easily.
To store leftover johnny cakes, put them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay good for 1-2 days. When you’re ready, reheat them in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F, place the cakes on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
For longer storage, freeze cooked johnny cakes. Let them cool, then put them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can remain solidified for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them at room temperature before baking.
When reheating, the goal is to avoid overcooking. A perfect reheated johnny cake should have a crisp outside and a soft inside. It should taste just like it did when it was first made.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Johnny Cakes
- Store leftover johnny cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Freeze cooked johnny cakes for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain the perfect crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
By following these tips, you can enjoy homemade johnny cakes long after they’re made. Whether you’re looking to reheat johnny cakes or store johnny cakes for later, this Southern staple will satisfy your cravings anytime.
Why We Love This Recipe
Southern Comfort Food Nostalgia
The easy johnny cakes recipe is a beloved Southern classic. It brings back warm memories of comfort food and family gatherings. The crispy, golden edges and light, fluffy interior make these cornmeal cakes irresistible. They’re perfect for soaking up maple syrup, honey, or other sweet toppings.
Johnny cakes hold a special place in Southern culinary tradition. This recipe lets you enjoy that nostalgic taste of home in a healthier way. It’s a favorite among those who cherish the comfort and familiarity of traditional Southern dishes.
This recipe’s simplicity, combined with its deep-rooted cultural significance, makes it a favorite. It’s a taste of home that can be enjoyed any time. It’s a comforting reminder of the joys of family, tradition, and the flavors that make the South so special.
Variations and Substitutions
The classic johnny cakes recipe uses almond flour and Greek yogurt for a tasty, protein-rich treat. But, you can make it your own in many ways. You can swap almond flour for a mix of cornmeal and all-purpose or gluten-free flour. Smooth cottage cheese is a great substitute for Greek yogurt. For a deeper taste, cook them in bacon grease instead of butter.
Want to make them more savory? Add shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or crumbled bacon. You can try many different mix-ins and toppings. Experiment to find your favorite johnny cakes variations.
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute almond flour with cornmeal and all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- Use blended cottage cheese instead of Greek yogurt
- Cook cakes in bacon grease for a richer flavor
- Add shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or crumbled bacon
- Get creative with mix-ins and toppings to find your favorite version
Johnny cakes are a tasty Southern favorite that’s great for any meal. With a few tweaks, you can make them your own. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Conclusion
The easy johnny cakes recipe is the ultimate in southern comfort food. It has a light, fluffy texture and crispy edges. This cornmeal-based dish brings back the nostalgic taste of traditional johnny cakes but is healthier and lower in carbs.
By using almond flour, Greek yogurt, and a bit of butter, you can enjoy this beloved dish without feeling guilty. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
These johnny cakes match well with maple syrup, nectar, or as a side to your favorite dishes. The recipe’s versatility and taste make it a great addition to your southern comfort food collection.
Try this easy johnny cakes recipe and enjoy the flavors of the South in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to add comfort to your meals.
The johnny cake has a rich history and amazing texture. It’s perfect for any meal, making it a true symbol of southern comfort food. Enjoy this recipe and let it take you back to a time of warmth and hospitality.
FAQ
What are Johnny Cakes?
Johnny cakes are fried cornbread cakes. They are made with simple ingredients. They have a fluffy inside and crispy edges, loved in the South.
What is the history of Johnny Cakes?
Johnny cakes come from Native American cuisine. They are like a mix between cornbread and pancakes. They were a staple for early settlers in the 1700s.
What are the key ingredients in this Recipe?
This recipe uses almond flour, baking powder, eggs, and heavy cream. You also need unsweetened Greek yogurt, melted butter, sugar substitute, and salt. Butter extract is optional.
How do you make Johnny Cakes?
First, mix the dry ingredients like almond flour and baking powder. Then, whisk the wet ingredients like eggs and cream. Combine them until just mixed.
What are some ways to serve Cakes?
Serve johnny cakes with eggs, chili, or soups. They go well with butter, maple syrup, or honey. For a savory taste, try cheese, bacon, or jalapeños.
How healthy are these Cakes?
This version is low in carbs and high in protein. Each serving has 226 calories, 31g carbs, 6g protein, and 9g fat. It’s a healthier take on cornbread.
What are some ways to make Johnny Cakes even healthier?
Use almond flour and cornmeal for a low-carb version. Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are good protein substitutes. Reduce butter and use sugar substitutes to cut carbs and calories.
What are some tips for cooking the perfect Cakes?
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding batter. This helps get a crispy exterior. Use butter or oil to grease the pan. Scoop batter carefully to prevent cakes from sticking together.
How do you store and reheat leftover Cakes?
Store scraps in an air proof holder at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.
What makes this recipe special?
This recipe is a Southern classic that brings back warm memories. The crispy edges and fluffy inside make these cakes irresistible. It’s a healthier way to enjoy a nostalgic taste.
Can I customize this recipe?
Yes, you can customize this recipe. Try using cornmeal and gluten-free flour instead of almond flour. Use cottage cheese or bacon grease for extra flavor. Add cheese, jalapeños, or bacon for a savory twist.