Southern Hoe Cakes
This is a very special family recipe that we love to make for special occasions, like the holidays. Some folks call them griddle cakes or Johnny cakes. We call them hoe cakes and they are like a thick, savory pancake. Try this simple, low country recipe on a lazy morning or special holiday.
Ingredients
½ cup to 1 cup self-rising flour
2 cups whole milk or buttermilk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 stick butter
Maple syrup, for serving
Fried egg, for serving (optional)
Preparation
1. Heat a large cast-iron pan (you can also use a nonstick griddle pan if you don’t have cast-iron) over medium-high heat.
2. Place the flour in a large bowl, then add the milk. Add the vegetable oil last. Using a whisk, mix together until it reaches the consistency of pancake batter, but slightly thicker. Adjust with more milk or a bit more oil if needed.
3. Generously butter the hot pan and tilt to coat all over. Then, working in batches if needed, immediately pour in the batter to create several ½-inch thick cakes. Let cook until the cakes begin to rise a bit and bubbles begin to form on the surface. Flip and continue cooking to form a dark brown ring around the edges. (Reference the video for tips!) Transfer the cakes to a plate.
4. Using a serrated knife, split open the cakes (like you would a burger bun or bagel). Generously butter the insides, then top with syrup or top with a fried egg and serve.
View Recipe 
