Old-Fashioned Southern Rice Cakes with Creamy Comfort
These traditional Southern rice cakes are soft on the inside with lightly crisp edges from skillet frying. Made with cooked rice, cream, and a touch of sweetness, this comforting recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a warm breakfast or dessert-style treat.
This recipe from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon reflects the resourcefulness often found in Southern kitchens, where leftover rice could easily become a hearty homemade dish served with syrup for extra sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (cooked)
- 2 cups cream
- 1-1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1-1/4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon shortening (melted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the cooked rice in a bowl and pour 1 cup of cream over it. Let the mixture sit overnight so the rice can soften and absorb the cream.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, remaining cream, and melted shortening until smooth.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
4. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the liquid mixture into the rice mixture, stirring gently until combined.
5. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium heat.
6. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the hot skillet, shaping them slightly if needed.
7. Cook until golden brown on one side, then flip once and cook the other side until browned and cooked through.
8. Serve warm with syrup drizzled over the top.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- Rice cakes are a creative Southern comfort food made from simple ingredients.
- The overnight soaking step gives the cakes a soft, creamy texture.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a lightly sweet snack.
- Delicious served warm with syrup, honey, or preserves.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth and flavor.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes rooted in Southern home cooking and family traditions. Her cookbook celebrates comforting dishes passed down through generations while preserving the warmth and culture of Black Southern kitchens.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
