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Old Fashioned Johnny Cake

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  • #48174

Also known as journey cakes (because it travels well). This version is baked more like cornbread while some other recipes make it into more of a pancake flatbread.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  30-60 minutes
Rating: 5/5

3 reviews
3 comments

ingredients

1 cup yellow cornmeal
2 cups sifted flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
1 beaten egg
1 1/2 cup sweet milk (whole milk)

directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 8x8 baking pan.

Sift the yellow cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until incorporated.

While stirring, add the egg and milk. Mix until just combined (the batter will be lumpy).

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Bake at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes or until done. Let cool slightly then cut into squares and serve.

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

recipe tips


Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.

Do not overmix the batter or the Johnny cake may turn out crumbly and dry.

Grease the baking pan well to prevent sticking.

Always preheat the oven before baking.

Let the Johnny cake cool slightly in the pan before cutting.

For a crispier crust, brush the top with melted butter before baking.

Use a knife or spatula to level the flour when measuring for accuracy.

Try adding herbs or spices like rosemary or thyme for a more savory flavor.

common recipe questions


Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, including plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it will affect the overall sweetness of the Johnny Cake.

How do I know when the Johnny Cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when it's golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add any additional ingredients to the batter?

Yes, you can add ingredients like corn kernels, bacon, jalapenos, or cheese.

How should I store leftover Johnny Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What's the best way to serve Johnny Cake?

Serve warm with butter, honey, or as a side dish with soups and stews.

Can I make Johnny Cake in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, you can bake it in a preheated 9-inch round cast iron skillet for a crispy crust.


nutrition data

373 calories, 7 grams fat, 67 grams carbohydrates, 9 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Waterlily

    Going to have to try this! My mom made this for us growing up in the 50’s and 60’s often. There was eleven children and she served dessert every night! Johnny cake and syrup baked in a big ol’ baking pan, hot out of the oven...we just loved it!😊

  2. Ruthie

    I have my Grandmother's recipe for Johnny cake but we always made it with buttermilk. Anyone else's family make it this way?

  3. Eric REVIEW:

    I made this Johnny Cake for my 10 yr old son. It is exactly like the one his great grandfather John loved so much serv d with butter and maple syrup on top. My son loved it and learned a little of his family history in a yummy way.

  4. Grandma 13 REVIEW:

    Best Johnny cake recipe I've ever tried and my Dad was southern born and we ate it a lot when I was little. Wonderful sweetness and I used one can of Sweetened condensed milk (one cup) and a 1/2 cup of 2%. Hubby loved it!

  5. deb J

    In this recipe,it calls for "sweet milk"....does that mean eagle brand condensed sweet milk?

    • Sweet milk is a way that was used to describe what we now refer to as whole milk. It's an "old fashioned" term to go with an "old fashioned" recipe

  6. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    This recipe is great! I added dried cranberries, which worked well. I also halved the recipe (so easy to do with the portion calculator) which made at LEAST 5 generous servings. Very easy to prepare.

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