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belizean journey cake recipe

Belizean Journey Cakes Recipe (Belizean Johnny Cakes)

This Belizean Journey Cakes Recipe, also known as Johnny Cakes, is a warm taste of home — soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and rich with coconut flavor. A traditional Belizean breakfast bread once carried by travelers on long journeys, these simple yet comforting cakes are made with flour, butter, and coconut milk. They pair perfectly with butter, cheese, or refried beans for a cozy Caribbean morning.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Belizean, Caribbean
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • | 3 | cups | All-purpose flour | Provides the soft base |
  • | 1 | tablespoon | Sugar | Adds a hint of sweetness |
  • | 4 | teaspoons | Baking powder | Makes cakes light and fluffy |
  • | 1 | teaspoon | Salt | Balances the flavor |
  • | ¼ | cup | Butter or margarine | Adds rich soft texture |
  • | 1 | cup | Coconut milk | Fresh or canned; gives tropical flavor |

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl Large, for dry ingredients
  • Baking tray Lightly greased or lined
  • Oven Preheated to 375°F
  • Rolling pin Optional, for flattening
  • Measuring cup & spoons For accuracy

Method
 

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir until evenly mixed.
  3. Add Butter:
  4. Rub the butter into the dry mix with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
  5. Add Coconut Milk:
  6. Pour in coconut milk slowly, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add a little flour if too sticky.
  7. Shape the Dough:
  8. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten gently with your palm. Place them on a baking tray.
  9. Bake:
  10. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden on top.
  11. Serve and Enjoy:
  12. Let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with butter, cheese, or refried beans for an authentic Belizean breakfast.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the dough; mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
  • Use fresh coconut milk for the best flavor, but canned works fine.
  • If the dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour.
  • Reheat leftover journey cakes in the oven or toaster for 2–3 minutes to refresh their texture.
  • These cakes can also be enjoyed with fried beans, cheese, or stew chicken for a heartier meal.