Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

These savory Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes are a delightful breakfast option that brings a unique twist to traditional pancakes. With their combination of crispy bacon, sweet corn, and melted cheese, they offer a satisfying and hearty meal suitable for any occasion—from a cozy family brunch to a festive holiday gathering. The balance of salty and sweet flavors makes them irresistible, especially when paired with warm maple syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of bacon, corn, and cheese creates a delicious savory flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy mornings.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy them as a main dish for breakfast or brunch, or serve as appetizers at gatherings.
• Hearty Texture: The thick batter results in griddle cakes that are filling and satisfying.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make perfect Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or griddle
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or griddle: A non-stick surface helps achieve the ideal golden-brown color without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls keeps your ingredients organized for ease of preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk allows for thorough mixing of the batter, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

For the Griddle Cakes

• 8 slices bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
• ⅓ cup finely chopped sweet onion
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅔ cup milk, plus more if needed to thin batter
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
• 1 cup frozen, canned, or fresh corn
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For Serving

• Warm maple syrup, for drizzling

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How to Make Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Onion

In a medium skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until they begin to brown. Add the chopped onion and continue to cook until the bacon is crisp and the onion is soft. Scoop out a heaping tablespoon of this mixture and set aside for topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, chives, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir in the milk, beaten egg, and oil until just moistened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the bacon-onion mixture, corn, and cheese to the batter. Mix gently until combined; remember that the batter will be thick. If you prefer thinner griddle cakes, stir in a little extra milk.

Step 4: Cook the Griddle Cakes

Heat and lightly grease your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour heaping ¼-cup portions of the batter onto the hot surface. Cook each griddle cake for about 3–4 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your griddle cakes stacked high! Top them with the reserved bacon-onion mixture along with a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup for that sweet finish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

These Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes make for a delightful breakfast or brunch option. They can be served in various ways to elevate your meal experience.

Stack them High

• Stack two or three griddle cakes on a plate for a hearty serving. This presentation is not only appealing but also satisfying.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• A generous drizzle of warm maple syrup adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the griddle cakes, enhancing the overall taste.

Top with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy texture that complements the crispy bacon and sweet corn, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Chives

• Sprinkle additional chopped fresh chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. This simple garnish makes a big difference in presentation.

Serve with Eggs

• Pair your griddle cakes with fried or scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast. The richness of the eggs goes wonderfully with the savory cakes.

How to Perfect Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

To achieve the best results when making your Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and high-quality bacon will enhance the flavor of your griddle cakes significantly.
• Adjust Consistency: If your batter seems too thick, add extra milk gradually until it reaches your desired consistency for perfect cakes.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your griddle or skillet is well-heated before adding batter. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust everyone loves.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough griddle cakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, try other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

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Best Side Dishes for Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

Pairing your Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings sweetness and freshness to complement the savory cakes.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances textures.
3. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread adds richness that pairs well with the griddle cakes’ flavors.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty addition to your breakfast spread.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element to your plate while keeping it simple.
6. Breakfast Sausages: Adding links or patties of breakfast sausage enhances the protein content and pairs beautifully with the bacon already in the cakes.
7. Oven-Baked Beans: A small serving of savory baked beans provides an extra layer of warmth and heartiness.
8. Tomato Slices: Fresh tomato slices seasoned with salt can add refreshing acidity to balance out the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes, it’s easy to make a few slip-ups that could affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the bacon crisping: Not cooking the bacon until crispy can lead to an underwhelming flavor. Make sure to cook it thoroughly for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in tough griddle cakes. Stir just until combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring thickness adjustments: If the batter is too thick, your cakes may not cook evenly. Add a bit of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• Not preheating the griddle: A cold griddle can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat before adding batter for a perfect sear.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings like maple syrup or the reserved bacon-onion mix can miss out on added flavors. Don’t forget these delicious enhancements!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow griddle cakes to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

• Freeze individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds at a time, checking until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each cake for about 2-3 minutes per side until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes?

Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes are savory pancakes made with crispy bacon, sweet corn, cheese, and chives. They offer a hearty breakfast option that combines salty and sweet flavors.

Can I use fresh corn in Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes?

Yes! Fresh corn adds great flavor and texture. Just ensure it’s cooked beforehand before mixing it into your batter.

How do I customize my Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes?

Feel free to add ingredients like jalapeños for heat or different cheeses like cheddar for varied flavors. You can also substitute green onions for chives if desired.

Can I make these griddle cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge or even cook them fully and reheat when needed.

Final Thoughts

These Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any breakfast or brunch table. With their delightful balance of flavors, you can easily customize them by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting textures. We encourage you to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a new favorite!