This Belizean boil cake recipe is one of the most loved traditional desserts in Belize. It has a deep and warm spiced flavor. The cake stays moist, soft, and rich. It also has a special step that makes it stand out. You boil the fruit mix before you bake it. This simple step adds bold taste and gives every bite a rich and festive feel.
I have made this Belizean Boil Cake many times. Each time, it reminds me of Belizean care and warmth. The charm is in the simple items, the big flavor, and the way this recipe brings people together. It feels like home. It feels like a kind smile in the form of dessert. If you are new to Caribbean baking, this guide will help you learn with ease. If this is your first time trying this classic, you will enjoy each clear step and tip. This guide will show you how to make Belizean Boil Cake in a smooth and simple way.
Belizean Boil Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a large pot on medium heat. Add butter, brown sugar, water, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, raisins, and mixed candied fruits. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to fully cool to room temperature to prevent cooking the eggs or thickening the batter.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan or two loaf pans. Sift flour, baking powder, and baking soda together.
- Add the eggs to the cooled boiled mixture. Fold in dry ingredients gradually until smooth and thick. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and level the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and edges pull slightly away from the sides.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy.
Notes
What Is Belizean Boil Cake?
Belizean Boil Cake is a traditional Caribbean-style spice cake. You make it by boiling the butter, sugar, spices, and fruit. Then you mix in the dry items. This boiling step does many things:
- Infuses the cake with deep, warm spice
- Softens the fruits for better texture
- Creates a heavy, moist, pudding-like crumb
- Makes the cake rich without being overly sweet
It’s a popular treat during holidays, family gatherings, and Sunday afternoons — often served with coffee or tea.
Ingredients for Belizean Boil Cake (Measured)
Here is the classic ingredient list used in Belizean homes:
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Boiled Mixture
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup mixed candied fruits
Eggs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Why this works:
The fruit and spices simmer into a syrup-like base that gives the cake its signature flavor and moistness.
How to Make Belizean Boil Cake Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps for a soft, rich, and authentic cake.
Step 1 — Boil the Fruit Mixture
Place a large pot on medium heat. Add:
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Water
- Allspice
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Raisins
- Mixed candied fruits
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
When the mixture reaches boiling point, decrease the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
Expert Tip:
This step is essential — it softens the fruits and infuses them with spice.
Step 2 — Cool Completely
Take the pot off the burner and let it to come down to room temperature.
Do not skip cooling.
Adding eggs or flour to hot syrup can cook the eggs or make the batter gummy.
Step 3 — Prepare Dry Ingredients
While the boiled mixture cools:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan or two loaf pans
- Sift together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Flour
Sifting keeps the cake from becoming heavy.
Step 4 — Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Once cooled:
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well
- Fold in the dry ingredients gradually
- Mix the batter until it’s smooth, thick, and well incorporated.
Don’t overmix — this can make the cake dense instead of moist.
Step 5 — Bake
After the pan is ready, pour the batter into it and level the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until:
- A toothpick comes out clean
- The top is firm
- The edges pull slightly from the sides
Oven times vary, so begin checking at the 45-minute mark.
Step 6 — Cool and Serve
After the cake has cooled in the pan for ten minutes, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy with coffee, tea, or warm milk.
Tips for the Best Belizean Boil Cake
Use fresh spices
Stronger aroma, deeper flavor.
Don’t rush the boiling step
This is the heart of the recipe.
Adjust sweetness
Reduce brown sugar if preferred — the fruits already add sweetness.
Add nuts or other dried fruit
Popular add-ins include:
- Chopped pecans
- Currants
- Cherries
- Prunes
Try soaking the fruits
Optional but traditional in some homes — soaking in warm water or juice plumps them up.
Storage Tips
Room temperature: 3 days
Refrigerator: 5–7 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months when wrapped tightly
Boil cake freezes very well because of its moisture.
Final Thoughts
Belizean Boil Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a piece of Belizean tradition. The warm spices, soft fruits, and classic boiling method create a flavor that feels comforting and festive. Once you try this cake, you’ll understand why it’s loved across Belize and often passed down through generations.
This Belizean Boil Cake recipe is simple, rich, and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday treats. Give it a try, share it with friends, and enjoy a true taste of Belize.
FAQs About on belizean boil cake recipe
What does Belizean Boil Cake taste like?
Warm, spiced, sweet, and moist — similar to a light fruit cake with soft raisins and fruit.
Why boil the ingredients first?
Boiling softens the fruits, deepens the spice flavor, and helps create a moist crumb.
Can I make it without mixed fruit?
Yes — you can use raisins, currants, or chopped dates.
Can I reduce the butter?
It’s not recommended. Butter affects the texture and moisture.
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I’m Rob Newaz, a passionate home cook who loves creating easy, flavorful, and healthy recipes. I share practical cooking tips and everyday meal ideas to help you cook smarter and enjoy every bite.
