Best Guyanese Bake Recipes

Guyanese bake is a Caribbean staple so of course I had to compile the best bakes recipes! Whether you enjoy bite-sized soft bakes or doughy floats, there’s a bread recipe here to suit every taste bud and occasion.

Guyanese Bakes Recipes

In Guyana, many foods fit into the category of “bake.” However, none of the recipes are made in an oven. Each type of bread is made on the stovetop, either in a skillet or tawa. Some are deep fried, while others are lightly tossed with oil on a hot surface.

There are a range of textures, sizes, shapes, and even gluten-free options. But what remains the same is that each Caribbean bake recipe is absolutely delicious!

Why Make Bakes?

• Versatility: Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast dish, or a side with savory meals, Guyanese bakes are incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit various tastes, diets, and occasions.
• Flavorful: Nothing is bland about bakes recipes! From the crispy, golden-brown exterior to the soft, chewy interior, each has incredible textures and flavors.
• A Cultural Favorite: Bake isn’t just a Guyanese thing. It’s beloved across the Caribbean; everywhere from the Dominican Republic to Jamaica. It may have a different name, but they all have similar ingredients and preparations.
• Made with Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples like flour, salt, sugar, water, yeast/baking powder, you can make Guyanese bake recipes.

What is a Guyanese Bake?

Guyanese bakes are a type of bread made with flour, baking powder or yeast (sometimes both), salt, sugar, and water, which is then shaped into rounds or patties and cooked on a stovetop. You can fry them or just heat them up. They can be enjoyed as is, or with spreads like butter or jam. For more substantial meals, many Guyanese bakes recipes are served with saltfish or curry.

They have different names depending on the location and preparation. Bakes can be referred to as Johnny cakes, fried dumplings, bake, bakes, fry bakes, fried bakes, and floats, to name a few.

Best Guyanese Bake Recipes

What to Serve with Bakes

• Salt fish: Salt fish is a popular choice to pair with Guyanese bakes. Sautéed Salt Fish adds a salty, savory vibrance to the bake that complements the soft and fluffy texture of the bakes perfectly.
• Baigan: Baigan, or eggplant, can be prepared in various ways to serve alongside Guyanese bakes. Whether roasted, grilled, or sautéed, the rich and flavorful baigan is a mouthwatering contrast to the bakes.
• Canned salmon: This is a tasty, convenient addition to any bake recipe. The tender and flaky texture of Sautéed Canned Salmon pairs well with the softness of the bakes, creating a satisfying and filling meal.
• Cheese: Grate or slice cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to serve with Guyanese bakes. The creamy and indulgent flavor of the cheese adds richness to the bakes, making them even more delicious.
• Curries: Bake tastes great with something saucy, spicy, and savory so why not pair it with a Guyanese curry recipe? Serve it with Guyanese Style Chicken Curry, Guyanese Lamb Curry, or vegan Katahar Curry for a hearty meal.

Top Tips for the Best Bake Recipes

• Use fresh ingredients. Since we’re using just a handful of ingredients, make them good. Fresh ingredients ensure better texture, flavor, and leavening action, resulting in lighter and more flavorful bakes.
• Do not overwork the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough bakes. Overworking the dough causes excessive gluten development, resulting in tough bakes. This prevents proper rising during baking, leading to dense bake.
• Give the dough time to rest. Before shaping and cooking, let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and ensures a softer texture in the finished bakes.

Frequently Asked Questions