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Shop Little Guyana > Blog > Recipes > How to Make Guyanese Fried Bakes (Float)
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How to Make Guyanese Fried Bakes (Float)

Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside

Tom Rose
Last updated: November 9, 2024 11:18 pm
By Tom Rose
3 Comments
9 Min Read
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Guyanese fried bakes, also known as “float” in some parts of the Caribbean, are a beloved staple in Guyanese households. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, these are best served warm, often alongside savory dishes like saltfish, butter, or cheese. This versatile fried bread is a popular breakfast or snack, enjoyed by people of all ages, and easy to make at home.

Contents
What Are Fried Bakes?Why You Should Try This Fried Bakes RecipeCultural Significance of Fried BakesHow to Make Guyanese BakesIngredients You’ll NeedKey Ingredients ExplainedTips for Perfect Fried BakesBakes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Leave a Comment!Guyanese Fried Bakes

What Are Fried Bakes?

Despite the name, these bakes are actually fried, not baked! In Caribbean cooking, the term “bake” often refers to any bread that puffs up, whether baked or fried. Guyanese fried bakes are simple yet delicious rounds of dough, fried until golden and pillowy. They’re similar to other fried bread varieties across the Caribbean, like Trinidad’s “fried bakes” or Jamaican “festival,” but with their own unique Guyanese twist.

Why You Should Try This Fried Bakes Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about biting into a warm, freshly made bake. The mild flavor and fluffy texture make it ideal for pairing with almost anything, from scrambled eggs to cheese or even a bit of jam for a sweet twist. Plus, it’s an affordable, quick recipe that brings authentic Guyanese flavor right to your kitchen.

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Cultural Significance of Fried Bakes

Fried bakes are part of the culinary heart of Guyanese culture, symbolizing the resourcefulness and warmth of Caribbean cooking. This simple recipe has been passed down through generations, with many families adding their unique spin to the ingredients or technique. Bakes are often enjoyed during gatherings, breakfasts, or as a snack with friends and family, making them a deeply social and communal dish.

How to Make Guyanese Bakes

Making Guyanese bakes is an easy and fulfilling experience. Start by gathering your ingredients and equipment, as a well-prepared kitchen makes the cooking process smoother. Sifting the dry ingredients helps create a light texture, so don’t skip that step! When rubbing in the lard, ensure it’s cold to achieve a flaky consistency.

As you mix in the sugar water, be mindful not to overwork the dough; just combine until you can form it into a ball. The shaping process is fun—flattening and rolling out the dough allows for creativity. Don’t worry if your shapes aren’t perfect; that rustic charm adds to their appeal!

Frying is where the magic happens. Watch those bakes puff up and turn golden brown; it’s a sight that’ll make your mouth water! And remember, the bakes are best enjoyed fresh, straight from the fryer, so gather your friends and family for a delicious treat that celebrates Guyanese culture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Check out our Ingredients for recommendations.

  • All-Purpose Flour
  • Double-Acting Baking Powder
  • Salt
  • Lard
  • Sugar
  • Vegetable Oil

Key Ingredients Explained

To make the perfect fried bake, understanding the role of each ingredient is key. Here’s a breakdown of what each one does:

  • Flour: This forms the base of the dough. All-purpose flour is ideal for fried bakes because it provides a balanced texture that’s light yet slightly chewy.
  • Baking Powder: A leavening agent that gives the bakes their airy texture. Double-acting baking powder adds a bit more lift, helping the bakes puff up nicely.
  • Salt: Just a pinch of salt balances out the flavors. Without it, the bakes would taste bland.
  • Lard: Lard is traditional in Guyanese cooking, adding richness and a flaky texture. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with margarine or butter, though lard offers the most authentic taste.
  • Sugar: Sugar adds a touch of sweetness and helps the dough brown beautifully when fried. Dissolving it in water makes it easier to incorporate into the dough.
  • Vegetable Oil for Frying: This is the key to the crispy outer layer. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or sunflower oil, to keep the flavor focused on the bakes.

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Tips for Perfect Fried Bakes

  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: To keep your bakes soft and fluffy, handle the dough lightly. Overworking it can make the bakes tough.
  • Watch the Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the bakes can burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil. Aim for medium-high heat to get a nice golden color.
  • Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a subtle flavor twist.
  • Serve with Savory or Sweet Toppings: Fried bakes are deliciously versatile. Try them with salted fish, butter, jam, or cheese.

Bakes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make bakes without lard?

Yes! You can substitute lard with margarine or butter, but lard provides a traditional taste and flakiness.

How do I store leftover bakes?

Store any leftover bakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in a skillet for best results.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Traditional fried bakes are, well, fried! However, you can experiment with baking them at 375°F until golden brown, though they may turn out less fluffy.

Leave a Comment!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes! And don’t forget to share it with your family—you know they’re gonna ask for it!

Guyanese Fried Bakes

Guyanese Fried Bakes

Golden fried bakes, also known as "float" in some parts of the Caribbean, are a beloved staple in Guyanese households. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.
4.50 from 2 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine Guyanese
Servings 9 Pieces
Calories 105 kcal

Equipment

Deep Bowl
Deep Bowl
Sifter
Sifter
Rolling Pin
Rolling Pin
Heavy Skillet
Heavy Skillet
Slotted Spoon
Slotted Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp double-acting baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp lard chilled and cut into ¼-inch bits
  • 2 tsp sugar dissolved in ¼ cup of cold water
  • Vegetable oil for frying
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Instructions
 

  • Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together into a deep bowl. Add the chilled bits of lard.
    2 cups flour, 2 tsp double-acting baking powder, 1 tsp salt, 2 tsp lard
  • Mix the Dough: Quickly rub the flour and lard together with your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse meal.
  • Add Liquid: Pour in the sugar-water mixture all at once and toss to combine. Gather the dough into a ball. If the dough crumbles, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together.
    2 tsp sugar
  • Form the Bakes: Pinch off about 2 tablespoons of dough for each bake. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a round about 3 inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick.
  • Heat Oil: Pour oil into the skillet to a depth of about ¼ inch and heat until hot but not smoking.
    Vegetable oil for frying
  • Fry the Bakes: Fry 4–5 bakes at a time for about 3 minutes on each side, turning them with a slotted spoon. Adjust the heat as needed so they cook evenly without burning.
  • Drain and Serve: Once golden brown, transfer the bakes to paper towels to drain. Serve warm or at room temperature, with butter, cheese, or your favorite topping.

Notes

The nutritional values provided in this recipe are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Each recipe includes estimated cook time and serving sizes for your convenience. Actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used, portion sizes, and individual cooking methods. This information is not intended to provide medical or nutritional advice, and we recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or nutritionist for specific dietary needs.

Nutrition

Calories: 105kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 353mg | Potassium: 32mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 55IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 1mg
Keyword fried
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3 Comments 3 Comments
  • Kristina Budhraj says:
    December 15, 2024 at 3:17 pm

    4 stars
    Thank you for sharing this recipe

    Reply
  • Yasodra says:
    December 15, 2024 at 2:37 pm

    5 stars
    Thank you for sharing this recipe

    Reply
  • Pingback: The Best Flours for Caribbean & Guyanese Cooking - Shop Little Guyana
4.50 from 2 votes

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