Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies

Servings: 20-24 pennies | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern Cornmeal Pennies are a beloved Southern classic—crispy, savory, and absolutely addictive. With just three simple ingredients, you can create these delightful little cornmeal bites that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or alongside your favorite Southern meal.

The name “pennies” comes from their coin-like shape—round, golden, and just the right size for popping in your mouth. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with that wonderful cornmeal flavor that’s so quintessentially Southern.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for a picnic, or just craving a taste of the South, these cornmeal pennies deliver every single time. They’re simple, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients

1 cup self-rising cornmeal mix
½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
2 tablespoons bacon drippings or vegetable oil (for frying)
Salt to taste (optional)

Directions

1. Heat the oil. In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the bacon drippings or vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.

2. Make the batter. In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising cornmeal mix and milk. Stir until a thick, sticky batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped by spoonfuls.

3. Fry the pennies. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form coin-like rounds. Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

4. Cook until golden. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Season and serve. Sprinkle with salt while still warm, if desired. Serve immediately.

Variations

Cheesy version: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
Spicy kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Herb-infused: Add fresh chives, parsley, or green onions.
Onion twist: Add 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion.
Bacon version: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the batter.
Baked option: Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Expert Tips

Use bacon drippings. They add incredible Southern flavor.
Don’t overcrowd. Fry in batches for even cooking.
Drop carefully. Use a teaspoon for uniform penny-sized rounds.
Serve immediately. These are best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.

What to Serve With These Pennies

Fried chicken or barbecue
Collard greens or green beans
Honey butter for dipping
A glass of sweet tea

Final Thoughts

These Southern 3-Ingredient Cornmeal Pennies are the perfect taste of the South—crispy, golden, and so simple to make. They’re guaranteed to become a family favorite!