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Crispy golden hot water cornbread patties on a white kitchen table, shot from above in natural light.

Easy Hot Water Cornbread

Classic Southern hot water cornbread with a crispy golden crust and tender center. Simple, egg-free, and perfect with beans, greens, or fried fish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 3 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 8 patties
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Soul Food, Southern
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Cornmeal Medium grind preferred
  • 0.25 cup All-purpose flour Can use gluten-free blend
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper Optional for spice
  • 1.5 cups Boiling water Must be freshly boiled
  • Vegetable oil For frying
  • Honey butter Optional for serving

Equipment

  • 1 Cast iron skillet (10–12 in) Ensures even frying and crispy crust
  • 2 Mixing bowls For wet and dry ingredients
  • 1 Wooden spoon or whisk For mixing batter
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Deep-fry thermometer Keep oil at 350–375°F
  • 1 Slotted spoon or spatula For flipping patties
  • Paper towels For draining oil
  • Tongs For safe handling

Method
 

  1. Mix Batter
  2. Heat Oil
  3. Fry Patties
  4. Flip & Cook
  5. Drain & Serve

Notes

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.