A Timeless Heritage Cornbread from the American South
Crispy around the edges, tender in the center, and full of classic cornmeal flavor, Hoe Cakes are one of the oldest and most beloved breads in Southern cuisine. These simple skillet cakes require only a handful of pantry staples and have been enjoyed for generations as a hearty breakfast, side dish, or quick meal.
Featured as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, Hoe Cakes represent the ingenuity and resilience of African American cooks who transformed affordable ingredients into satisfying meals. Traditionally cooked on a hot griddle or cast-iron skillet, these golden corn cakes remain a cherished part of Southern food traditions today.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil
- 1½ cups self-rising cornmeal
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1¼ cups buttermilk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Crisco Shortening, melted
Makes: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat ¼ cup Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil to 365°F in an electric skillet or on a medium-high heat in a heavy skillet.
- In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising cornmeal and baking soda.
- Add the buttermilk, lightly beaten egg, and melted Crisco Shortening. Stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Avoid overmixing.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of batter into the hot skillet for each hoe cake.
- Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Carefully turn each hoe cake and cook the opposite side until golden. Add additional shortening if needed during cooking.
- Drain briefly on paper towels and serve immediately while hot.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Use real buttermilk for the authentic tangy Southern flavor.
- Cook in a cast-iron skillet to achieve crisp edges and even browning.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the hoe cakes light and tender.
- Serve fresh from the skillet with butter, cane syrup, honey, or sorghum syrup.
- Pair with collard greens, fried chicken, country ham, or barbecue for a classic Southern meal.
About the Creator
The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) compiled The Black Family Reunion Cookbook to preserve African American culinary traditions through family recipes, regional specialties, and treasured food memories. Throughout the cookbook, Heritage Recipes recognize historic dishes that tell the story of resilience, community, and the lasting influence of African American foodways on Southern cooking.
The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. This celebrated cookbook features hundreds of cherished family recipes, Heritage Recipes, and regional specialties that preserve the rich culinary traditions of African American families while celebrating the joy of gathering around the table.
