Hoe Cake
Chef Ellie
Discover the delicious charm of Hoe Cake! This easy Southern recipe is crispy, golden, and perfect for any meal. Try it today for a comforting treat!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Side Dish, Breakfast
Cuisine Southern, Comfort Food
Servings 4 slices
Calories 250 kcal
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal – The key to that signature crispy texture and rich corn-forward flavor.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a lighter more structured hoe cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds a bit of lift keeping the hoe cakes fluffy and tender.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk – Buttermilk gives a slight tang and extra moisture, but whole milk works too.
- 1 egg – Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter melted – Adds a touch of buttery goodness to every bite.
- Oil or additional butter for frying – A little oil in the skillet ensures those beautifully golden, crispy edges.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon honey – For a subtle sweetness.
- ½ cup shredded cheese – Cheddar or pepper jack adds a savory twist.
- 1 small jalapeño diced – For a mild, spicy kick.
- ¼ cup cooked crumbled bacon – Because everything’s better with bacon!
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1 cup cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
This combination ensures a balanced texture—the cornmeal provides a delightful crisp, while the flour keeps the hoe cakes tender.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk) and 1 beaten egg.
Stir in 2 tablespoons melted butter for extra richness.
Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the hoe cakes dense instead of light and fluffy.
Heat the Skillet
Place a cast-iron skillet (or a heavy-bottomed pan) over medium heat.
Add a tablespoon of oil or butter to coat the surface.
A well-heated skillet is the secret to golden, crispy edges, so make sure it’s hot before adding the batter.
Cook the Hoe Cakes
Use a ¼-cup measuring cupto
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges turn golden brown.
Flip carefully and cook for another 2 minutes until both sides are crispy and cooked through.
Serve & Enjoy!
Once cooked, transfer the hoe cakes to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings—butter, honey, syrup, or savory gravies.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 2%
- Vitamin C: 0%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 6%