Using room temperature shortening or butter will allow it to better combine with the dry ingredients.
An item like a bottle or a cup may be used in place of a rolling pin. Sprinkle small amounts of flour for dusting, if needed.
The tester piece will allow you to gauge when the oil is at the optimal frying temperature. Once the tester has begun cooking and is golden brown, the oil is at the right temperature for the johnny cakes to be fried.
Leftover johnny cakes can be refrigerated or stored at room temperature. Johnny cakes can be reheated in a toaster oven.