Hoe Cakes Recipe recipe photo - Hoe Cakes Recipe by Jan

Hoe Cakes Recipe

Published: April 3, 2025 Prep Time: About 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Serves: 8-10 Difficulty: Easy Category: Breakfast Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter for cooking
  • Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat egg and add buttermilk, vegetable oil, and sugar.
  3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add 1 tablespoon butter and let it melt.
  6. Drop 1/4 cup batter for each hoe cake.
  7. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.
  8. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown on the other side.
  9. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more butter as needed.
  10. Serve hot with maple syrup.

Special Notes

Hoe cakes are a traditional Southern breakfast food that's similar to pancakes but made with cornmeal. The combination of cornmeal and flour creates a unique texture that's both crispy and tender. The buttermilk adds tanginess and helps create a light, fluffy texture. These cakes are perfect for serving with syrup, honey, or jam. The key is to cook them over medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning. These hoe cakes are perfect for weekend breakfasts or as a side dish for dinner. They keep well and can be reheated in the oven or toaster.