4-Ingredient Poor Man Hoecakes

These 4-Ingredient Poor Man Hoecakes are a classic Southern favorite made with simple pantry staples. Crispy around the edges, soft in the center, and ready in minutes, they’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (160 g) self-rising cornmeal mix
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup (180 ml) buttermilk (or whole milk)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter (plus more for frying)

Optional: Add a pinch of black pepper, a tablespoon of sugar for a sweeter version, or a little shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal mix, egg, buttermilk, and oil until just combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. If needed, add a splash more milk.
2. Heat a cast-iron skillet or nonstick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter.
3. Scoop about ¼ cup of batter into the hot skillet for each hoecake.
4. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to brown.
5. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil or butter as needed.

Tips

• A cast-iron skillet gives the crispiest edges.
• Don’t flip the hoecakes too early—wait until the bottom is golden.
• Keep cooked hoecakes warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while making the rest.
• For extra-crispy hoecakes, use a little bacon grease instead of oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Butter and maple syrup
• Honey
• Sausage or bacon
• Fried eggs
• Country ham
• Chili or vegetable soup

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze with parchment paper between each hoecake for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet for 1–2 minutes per side, or in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 hoecakes
Calories: Approximately 120 calories per hoecake