Massachusetts Johnnycake Griddle Cakes on Arteflame

Introduction

Johnnycake griddle cakes are a timeless New England classic. These delicious cornmeal cakes have been a staple in Massachusetts cuisine for centuries. With the Arteflame grill, you can cook them to perfection on the flat griddle cooktop, ensuring a crisp, golden crust and fluffy interior. We’ll show you how to make these historic cakes with butter and syrup while using the Arteflame’s even heat distribution for the best results.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for grilling)
• Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the batter

1. In a bowl, mix the cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
2. Pour in the boiling water and stir until smooth.
3. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then add milk and melted butter.
4. Blend until the batter is thick but pourable.

Step 3: Grill the Johnnycakes

1. Spread a thin layer of butter on the Arteflame flat griddle cooktop.
2. Ladle small amounts of batter onto the griddle to form cakes.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the edges start to crisp.
4. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the Johnnycakes from the grill.
2. Top with additional butter and drizzle with maple syrup.
3. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips

• Use freshly ground cornmeal for a more authentic flavor.
• The Arteflame griddle ensures an even cook—adjust placement for desired doneness.
• Thin the batter slightly for crispier cakes.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the griddle.

Variations

1. Sweet Cinnamon Johnnycakes: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a tablespoon of honey for a sweet variation.
2. Savory Cheddar Johnnycakes: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar and top with chives.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Johnnycakes: Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño for a kick of heat.
4. Blueberry Johnnycakes: Fold in 1/2 cup fresh or dried blueberries for a fruit-infused twist.
5. Bacon & Maple Johnnycakes: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon into the batter and top with extra maple syrup.

Best pairings

• Fresh berries
• Crispy bacon
• Scrambled eggs
• Smoked sausage
• Hot coffee or tea

Conclusion

Cooking Johnnycake griddle cakes on the Arteflame grill brings out their best texture and flavor. With a crispy exterior and soft, warm inside, they make for the perfect breakfast or side dish. The Arteflame’s unique flat-top griddle ensures an even sear without burning, locking in the best taste for these Massachusetts classics.