Johnnycake has its origin in an oaten bread called jannock (later bannock) in parts of England. These names evolved into “johnnycake” and later to “journey cake” in England. In America, johnnycakes were made from whatever grain, such as corn, rice, wheat, or oats, was available. Since they could be made on any hot surface and did not require an oven, johnnycakes became a common food among the poor.
© Oxford University Press, 2013