Southern Cornbread Hoecakes

Southern Cornbread Hoecakes are a classic staple of Southern cuisine, often enjoyed as a side dish with stews, beans, or fried meats. Unlike traditional cornbread, hoecakes are pan-fried, giving them a crispy exterior with a soft, tender inside. These golden-brown delights have deep historical roots, dating back to early American settlers and enslaved communities who cooked them on the blade of a hoe over an open fire. Today, they remain a beloved comfort food across the South.

What Makes Hoecakes Special?

Unlike fluffy cornbread baked in an oven, hoecakes have a crisp texture from being cooked in a skillet. They resemble pancakes but have a richer corn flavor, making them perfect for pairing with savory or sweet toppings. Some people enjoy them with butter and syrup, while others serve them alongside collard greens or smothered in gravy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or bacon grease
• Vegetable oil or bacon grease for frying

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and water.
3. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined. Do not overmix; a slightly lumpy batter is fine.
4. Stir in the melted butter or bacon grease for extra flavor. The batter should be thick but pourable. If needed, add a little more water to adjust the consistency.
5. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil or bacon grease.
6. Once the oil is hot, drop about ¼ cup of batter per hoecake into the skillet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, until the edges look set and bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
8. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep warm while cooking the remaining batter.
9. Serve hot with butter, honey, or your favorite savory toppings.

Prep Time & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 hoecakes

Tips for the Best Hoecakes

• Use bacon grease for authentic Southern flavor. It adds a smoky, rich taste that enhances the hoecakes.
• Make them crispy by using a well-heated skillet and avoiding overcrowding. Cook in small batches for even browning.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a little more water if the batter is too thick. A pancake-like texture works best.
• Pair them with classic Southern dishes like collard greens, fried chicken, or black-eyed peas. They also go well with maple syrup or jam for a sweet twist.

Southern Cornbread Hoecakes are simple yet full of character, making them a must-try for anyone who loves Southern cuisine. Whether served as a savory side or a standalone treat, their crispy, buttery goodness is sure to impress.