Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet so the Johnny Cakes do not stick during baking. Set the tray aside while you prepare the dough.

In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Give everything a good stir so the dry ingredients are spread evenly throughout the flour.

Add the softened butter or shortening to the bowl. Use your fingertips to work it into the flour until the mixture feels crumbly and no large pieces of butter remain. This gives the Johnny Cakes a soft, tender texture.

Slowly pour in the coconut milk as you mix the dough. Keep stirring until everything comes together into soft dough. You want the dough to feel smooth and easy to handle, not sticky or overly wet.

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a short time, just until it becomes smooth. Divide the dough into about 10 pieces. Roll each piece into a round shape about 1/2 inch thick and arrange them on the baking sheet.

For a nice golden finish, lightly brush the tops with a little coconut milk or melted butter. Leave some space between the Johnny Cakes so the heat can circulate around them. Keep them thick rather than pressing them too flat.

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the tops turn lightly golden and the centers are fully cooked. Take them out and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Johnny Cakes taste especially good warm alongside butter, cheese, eggs, or other breakfast favorites.