Picture this: crispy bacon, tender griddle cakes, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup, all combining to create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Crispy Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes with Maple Drizzle are the ultimate comfort food for any time of day. Whether it’s a special brunch or a cozy dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Let’s break down how to make these mouthwatering griddle cakes step by step.
Ingredients for Crispy Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes
Here’s everything you need for this recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bacon, diced into ½-inch pieces | 8 slices |
| Sweet onion, finely chopped | ⅓ cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Fresh chives, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Milk | ⅔ cup |
| Egg, beaten | 1 large |
| Canola or vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Corn (frozen, canned, or fresh) | 1 cup |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | ½ cup |
| Maple syrup | For serving |
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Flavor Harmony: The saltiness of bacon complements the sweetness of maple syrup and corn.
- Perfect Texture: Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, with pops of juicy corn.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients make it an approachable recipe for any skill level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon and Onions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet, discard the rest, and sauté the sweet onion in the reserved fat for about 3 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, chives, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, beaten egg, and oil.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
3. Fold in the Add-Ins
- Gently fold the cooked bacon, sautéed onions, corn, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese into the batter. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Griddle Cakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with oil or reserved bacon fat.
- Drop ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each griddle cake.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the griddle cakes warm, drizzled with maple syrup. For a complete meal, pair them with fresh fruit, eggs, or a crisp green salad.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the milk and egg are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Crispy Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture, but cook it thoroughly to achieve a crisp bite.
- Keep Warm: Place cooked griddle cakes in a warm oven (200°F) while finishing the batch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Carbohydrates | ~22g |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Fat | ~14g |
| Sodium | ~450mg |
| Fiber | ~2g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
For an unforgettable meal, pair your crispy bacon and corn griddle cakes with:
- A fresh fruit salad (think mixed berries, melons, and grapes).
- A side of scrambled eggs or an omelet.
- A refreshing drink like orange juice, coffee, or a mimosa.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place griddle cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Warm griddle cakes in a toaster oven, skillet, or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the bacon with something else?
Yes! Try turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative to suit your dietary needs.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar, Gouda, or pepper jack are excellent substitutes for Monterey Jack.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum for structure.
4. Do I have to use fresh chives?
No, dried chives or even chopped green onions work just as well.
5. Can I skip the cayenne pepper?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of spice, omit the cayenne or replace it with paprika for a milder flavor.
6. How do I ensure my griddle cakes cook evenly?
Use medium heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Wait until bubbles form on the surface before flipping.
Conclusion
Crispy Bacon and Corn Griddle Cakes with Maple Drizzle are the perfect mix of sweet and savory. The crisp bacon, juicy corn, and golden griddle cakes come together beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, lunch, or dinner, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn—gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and treat yourself to this irresistible dish. Your taste buds will thank you!