Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further than this delicious and easy flour hoe cake recipe! This simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting brunch, or even a delightful side at your next barbecue. Forget complicated recipes; this homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Let's dive into this classic, creating a truly delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple staples
This recipe is all about fresh, simple ingredients. That’s what makes it so delicious!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Hoe Cake Heaven
This recipe is designed for even the busiest weeknights. Let's get cooking!
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Grease a cast iron skillet (or a baking sheet) generously with oil or cooking spray. A cast iron skillet provides that authentic hoe cake texture, but a baking sheet works just fine.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps in your batter.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, and egg.
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Combine: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined – don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough hoe cake.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared skillet (or spread evenly on the baking sheet). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Cool & Serve: Let the hoe cake cool slightly before cutting and serving. It's delicious on its own, but you can also top it with butter, honey, syrup, or even a savory topping like chili.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Hoe Cake
- Buttermilk Substitute: Don't have buttermilk? No problem! You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
- Cast Iron Magic: Using a cast iron skillet really enhances the flavor and texture. If you don't have one, a non-stick baking sheet will work too.
- Don't Overmix: Resist the urge to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough hoe cake.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your hoe cake and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Cornmeal Hoe Cakes: Add 1/2 cup of cornmeal to the dry ingredients for a heartier, slightly coarser texture.
- Sweet Potato Hoe Cakes: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mashed sweet potato for a naturally sweet and moist hoe cake.
- Savory Hoe Cakes: Omit the sugar and add herbs and spices like chives, cheddar cheese, or even jalapeños for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying side dish. Enjoy your homemade hoe cakes! They're a delightful addition to any meal, offering a unique taste of Southern hospitality. Experiment with different variations, and let your culinary creativity shine!