Experience a delightful piece of history with johnny cakes, a classic treat that combines the rich flavors of cornmeal and cake flour to create a unique and satisfying dish. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these cakes are sure to bring warmth to your table.
Most of the ingredients for this johnny cake recipe are commonly found in your pantry. However, shortening might not be a staple in every household, so make sure to pick it up at the supermarket. Additionally, cake flour differs from all-purpose flour, providing a finer, softer texture, so look for it in the baking aisle.
Ingredients for Johnny Cake Recipe
cornmeal: A coarse flour made from dried corn, essential for giving the johnny cakes their distinctive texture.
milk: Used to moisten and bind ingredients together.
shortening: A fat used in baking to create a tender and moist texture in the cakes.
white sugar: Adds sweetness to the cakes.
cake flour: A finely milled flour that results in a soft, tender crumb in baked goods.
baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cakes rise and become fluffy.
salt: Enhances the flavor of the cakes.
egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
milk: Used again to blend with the egg and moisten the mixture.
One reader, Blondy Reddick says:
This johnny cake recipe is fantastic! The cake is moist, slightly sweet, and pairs perfectly with maple syrup. It's easy to make and a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack. Highly recommend!
Techniques for Perfect Johnny Cake
How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking. How to grease a cake pan: Use shortening, butter, or cooking spray to thoroughly coat the inside of an 8-inch square cake pan to prevent sticking. How to sift flour: Use a sifter or fine mesh strainer to aerate the flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring they are well combined and free of lumps. How to cream shortening and sugar: Beat the shortening and sugar together using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. How to blend mixtures alternately: Add portions of the flour mixture and egg mixture to the creamed mixture in alternating steps, mixing well after each addition. How to bake: Place the prepared batter into the greased cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How To Make Johnny Cake
A cornmeal flatbread made with milk and cake flour, this Johnny cake rendition promises incredibly soft and moist treats for a filling breakfast dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupcornmeal
- ½cupmilk
- ½cupshortening
- ½cupwhite sugar
- 1⅓cupscake flour
- 2½tspbaking powder
- 1tspsalt
- 1egg
- 1cupmilk
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease thoroughly an 8-inch square cake pan.
-
Combine cornmeal and milk. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir together the egg and milk.
-
Cream shortening, and blend in sugar. Stir flour mixture and egg mixture alternately into creamed mixture alternately. Blend in cornmeal mixture.
-
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
-
Serve warm with maple syrup and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 235.49kcal
- Fat: 10.23g
- Saturated Fat: 2.86g
- Trans Fat: 1.13g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.96g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.69g
- Carbohydrates: 32.33g
- Fiber: 0.77g
- Sugar: 10.13g
- Protein: 3.59g
- Cholesterol: 16.38mg
- Sodium: 186.56mg
- Calcium: 109.79mg
- Potassium: 80.00mg
- Iron: 1.88mg
- Vitamin A: 21.20µg
Crucial Technique Tip for Johnny Cake Success
When creaming the shortening and sugar, make sure the mixture is light and fluffy. This will help incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter and more tender johnny cake.
Time-Saving Tips for Johnny Cake Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently cream the shortening and blend the sugar.
Combine dry ingredients: Sift and mix all dry ingredients together in one bowl to save time during preparation.
Microwave milk: Warm the milk in the microwave for a few seconds to help it blend more easily with the cornmeal.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to ensure it’s ready when you are.
Substitute Ingredients For Johnny Cake Recipe
cornmeal - Substitute with polenta: Polenta is a coarser grind of cornmeal and can provide a similar texture and flavor.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option and provides a slightly nutty flavor.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used to add a richer flavor and similar texture.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used for a natural sweetener and adds a different depth of flavor.
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used, though the texture may be slightly denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Combine 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to create a vegan egg substitute.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Johnny Cake
Use a square mold: Bake the johnny cake in a square mold to achieve clean, sharp edges, enhancing the visual appeal.
Cut into uniform squares: Once baked, cut the johnny cake into uniform squares for a consistent and professional presentation.
Plate with precision: Place a single square of johnny cake in the center of a pristine white plate to create a striking contrast.
Drizzle with maple syrup: Artfully drizzle maple syrup around the johnny cake, allowing some to pool slightly on the plate for a touch of elegance.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Top each square with a small, perfectly shaped dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy texture and visual interest.
Garnish with fresh berries: Scatter a few fresh berries around the plate to introduce vibrant color and a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness of the johnny cake.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the johnny cake with powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like finish that enhances its visual appeal.
Serve with a mint sprig: Add a small sprig of fresh mint to the plate for a pop of green and a refreshing aroma that elevates the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Johnny Cake
Oven: Used to bake the johnny cake at the specified temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
8-inch square cake pan: The baking vessel where the batter will be poured and baked.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cornmeal and milk, as well as other ingredients.
Sifter: Utilized to sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the cornmeal, milk, shortening, sugar, cake flour, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder and salt precisely.
Whisk: Handy for stirring together the egg and milk.
Hand mixer: Useful for creaming the shortening and blending in the sugar.
Spatula: Helps in folding and mixing the ingredients together smoothly.
Grease brush: Used to thoroughly grease the cake pan to prevent sticking.
Cooling rack: Allows the johnny cake to cool evenly after baking.
Serving plate: For presenting the warm johnny cake, ready to be served with maple syrup.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Johnny Cake
Let the johnny cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store at room temperature, wrap the cooled johnny cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place the wrapped johnny cake in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze, wrap the cooled johnny cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label with the date and contents.
Frozen johnny cake can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before unwrapping and slicing.
If you prefer to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This allows you to thaw only the amount needed.
To reheat johnny cake, wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Johnny Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover johnny cake in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the cake from drying out.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, slice the leftover johnny cake into individual portions and place them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with a little melted butter or olive oil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are slightly crisp and the center is warm.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place a slice of johnny cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, or until the cake is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cake to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat individual slices of johnny cake. Place a slice on the toaster oven rack and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is perfect for achieving a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and moist.
For a unique twist, try transforming your leftover johnny cake into a delicious French toast. Slice the cake into thick pieces, dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and a pinch of cinnamon, then cook them in a buttered skillet until golden brown on both sides. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a tasty breakfast or dessert.
Interesting Fact About Johnny Cake
A johnny cake is a traditional cornbread that originated in North America. It is believed to have been made by Indigenous peoples and later adopted by early settlers.
Is Making Johnny Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
This johnny cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like cornmeal, milk, and sugar are inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of shortening and cake flour adds a slight cost but remains affordable. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5 to $7 USD, making it an economical choice for a delightful dessert or breakfast.
Is Johnny Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This johnny cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar (½ cup), which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- Shortening is used as the primary fat source, which is high in saturated and trans fats, linked to increased risk of heart disease and other chronic health problems.
- The recipe relies heavily on refined ingredients like white sugar and cake flour, which have been stripped of their natural nutrients and fiber.
- With 1½ cups of milk and an egg, the recipe is high in calories and fat, especially when served with maple syrup.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, and reduce the amount by half.
- Swap the shortening for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or grass-fed butter.
- Use whole grain cornmeal and replace the cake flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Reduce the milk to 1 cup and use a low-fat or plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk.
- Serve the johnny cake with fresh fruit compote instead of maple syrup to reduce added sugar and increase nutrient density.
Editor's Opinion on This Johnny Cake Recipe
This johnny cake recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of cornmeal and cake flour creates a tender yet slightly gritty crumb, while the shortening ensures a moist finish. The use of both milk and egg provides a rich, cohesive batter. However, the recipe could benefit from a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance its flavor profile. Serving it warm with maple syrup is a classic choice, adding a sweet, comforting touch. Overall, it's a solid, traditional recipe with room for minor enhancements.
Enhance Your Johnny Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Johnny Cake Recipe:
This johnny cake recipe is a timeless classic, cherished for its simplicity and rich flavor. The combination of cornmeal and cake flour creates a perfect texture, while the shortening and sugar add a delightful sweetness. The baking powder ensures a light and fluffy result every time. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Serve it warm with maple syrup for an irresistible treat. Trust in this tried-and-true method for a delicious homemade johnny cake.
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