Perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these traditional Southern cornmeal hoecakes make for a deliciously versatile dish. Whether enjoyed on their own, with a pat of butter, or drizzled with honey, these hoecakes bring the comforting flavors of the South right to your table.

Why You’ll Love These Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes:

This hoecake recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, comforting dishes with a touch of Southern flair. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, these hoecakes come together in minutes.
Versatile Dish: They’re perfect as a breakfast item, a savory side, or even a base for toppings like pulled pork or fried chicken.
Golden Crispiness: The combination of cornmeal and self-rising flour creates a beautiful, crispy edge that’s oh-so-satisfying.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, these are perfect for a last-minute addition to any meal.
Classic Southern Comfort: Hoecakes have a rich history in Southern cuisine and add a touch of nostalgia to any table.

Key Ingredients:

Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to the hoecakes’ distinctive flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cornmeal: The star of the show, cornmeal gives hoecakes their unique flavor and characteristic gritty texture. Use medium or fine ground cornmeal for a tender but slightly crunchy bite.

Self-Rising Flour: Adds a touch of lightness and helps the hoecakes puff up slightly. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding 1/4 teaspoon baking powder and a pinch of salt to regular flour.

Low-Fat Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and helps keep the batter thick but pourable. Buttermilk is traditional, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can make a substitute with regular milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.

Egg: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together, making the batter smooth and cohesive.

Oil for Frying: Coconut oil adds a hint of sweetness, but any neutral oil with a high smoke point (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil) will work just as well.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Here’s a step-by-step guide for making delicious hoecakes:

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of cornmeal and 1/3 cup of self-rising flour. Stir well to ensure they’re blended, which helps the hoecakes have a light texture.
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of low-fat buttermilk and 1 large egg until smooth.
Mix Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Would you like to save this?

Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away!

Step 2: Prepare to Fry

Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom. Coconut oil adds a subtle sweetness, but any frying oil will work.
Test the Oil: Drop a small amount of batter into the skillet; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

Step 3: Cook the Hoecakes

Spoon the Batter: Use a spoon or small ladle to scoop the batter into the skillet, forming small rounds, similar to pancakes.
Fry the Hoecakes: Cook each hoecake until the edges are golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. They should lift easily when ready to flip.
Flip and Cook: Flip each hoecake with a spatula and cook until both sides are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Drain on Paper Towels: Transfer cooked hoecakes to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Serve Warm: Enjoy them warm with butter, honey, crumbled bacon, or shredded cheese for a savory twist.

Serving Suggestions:

Hoecakes are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving ideas:

Classic Breakfast: Serve hoecakes with butter, honey, or maple syrup, and enjoy alongside eggs and sausage for a hearty Southern breakfast.
Savory Side: Pair hoecakes with collard greens, black-eyed peas, or fried chicken as a delicious accompaniment.
Creative Appetizer: Top hoecakes with pulled pork, smoked salmon, or pimento cheese for a unique appetizer or snack.
Comfort Food Base: Use hoecakes as a base for chili, stews, or creamy soups, adding a bit of crunch and texture to the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

While hoecakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can save any extras for later:

Refrigerator: Store leftover hoecakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze hoecakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm hoecakes in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.

Variations on Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes:

Try these creative twists on the classic hoecake recipe to suit different tastes:

Cheesy Hoecakes: Add 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the batter for a cheesy, savory flavor.
Spicy Hoecakes: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Sweet Corn Hoecakes: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and a handful of corn kernels for a slightly sweet version that pairs well with syrup.
Herb-Infused Hoecakes: Mix in chopped chives, green onions, or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous twist.

Conclusion:

Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes are the epitome of comfort food, with a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside. Whether you’re serving them with sweet toppings or as a savory side, these hoecakes are sure to bring a taste of Southern tradition to your table. Enjoy each bite of crispy, golden goodness!