Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
Introduction
Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies are a delightful little treat that captures the heart of Southern cooking. With just three simple ingredients, these golden rounds are easy to make and taste delicious. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, cornmeal pennies are a versatile addition to any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Southern Cornmeal Pennies is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Second, with only three ingredients, you likely already have everything you need at home. Finally, they offer a satisfying texture and rich flavor that complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a quick snack, these pennies will surely please everyone!
How to Make Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising cornmeal mix
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking tray or sheet pan with foil. Lightly grease the foil if needed to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the self-rising cornmeal mix, buttermilk, and melted butter until a thick, scoopable batter forms. Do not overmix; just combine until no dry pockets remain.
- Drop the batter by small spoonfuls onto the prepared tray, spacing them slightly apart. Gently flatten each one into a small round so they bake evenly and take on that classic penny shape.
- Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the pennies are golden brown around the edges and set in the center. If you want deeper color and extra crisp edges, let them go another 1 to 2 minutes while watching closely.
- Remove from the oven and brush lightly with any remaining melted butter if you like. Serve warm, or let them cool slightly so the edges stay crisp.
How to Serve Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
Cornmeal pennies are best served warm. Enjoy them as a snack with butter or honey, or use them as a side for meals like fried chicken or chili. They also make a great base for toppings like cheese or gravy.
How to Store Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
To store leftover cornmeal pennies, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven to bring back their crispiness.
Tips to Make Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
- Make sure not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay.
- If you prefer spicier pennies, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
- To enhance flavor, you can mix in chopped herbs or cheese before baking.
Variation
For a sweet twist, add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter. This can make a great dessert option when served with fruit or syrup.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cornmeal instead of self-rising cornmeal mix?
Yes, but you will need to add baking powder and salt to your mix. For one cup of regular cornmeal, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
2. Can I freeze cornmeal pennies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place cooled cornmeal pennies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to two months in the freezer.
3. What can I serve with cornmeal pennies?
Cornmeal pennies pair well with soups, stews, and salads. You can also serve them with collard greens or as a base for poached eggs.
Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking tray or sheet pan with foil. Lightly grease the foil if needed to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the self-rising cornmeal mix, buttermilk, and melted butter until a thick, scoopable batter forms. Do not overmix; just combine until no dry pockets remain.
- Drop the batter by small spoonfuls onto the prepared tray, spacing them slightly apart. Gently flatten each one into a small round.
- Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the pennies are golden brown around the edges and set in the center. If desired, bake an additional 1 to 2 minutes for crisp edges.
- Remove from the oven and brush lightly with any remaining melted butter if you like.
- Serve warm, or let them cool slightly so the edges stay crisp.
