Belizean Powder Bun Recipe: Authentic & Easy to Make

Belizean Powder Buns are a beloved traditional treat that captures the essence of Belize’s rich culinary heritage. These soft, sweet buns are made from a unique blend of flour and cornmeal, giving them a distinctive texture and flavor that’s both hearty and comforting.

Powder buns are often enjoyed as a breakfast staple or a delightful snack, pairing perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Their slightly sweet taste and fluffy interior make them irresistible to both locals and visitors alike.

Making powder buns from scratch might seem intimidating, but with this detailed recipe, you’ll find it straightforward and rewarding. Whether you’re new to Belizean cuisine or looking to recreate a nostalgic favorite, this recipe will guide you through every step to achieve the perfect buns.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake some authentic Belizean powder buns that will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas and your heart with warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Belizean Powder Bun recipe is a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Caribbean into your home kitchen. The buns are delightfully soft yet slightly dense, thanks to the combination of wheat flour and cornmeal, which gives them a unique texture you won’t find in ordinary bread.

They have just the right amount of sweetness, enhanced by a touch of molasses or brown sugar, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack anytime.

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its simplicity and accessibility. With basic pantry staples and easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create these delicious buns.

Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable — you can customize the sweetness or make them vegan by substituting dairy ingredients. These buns also freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh whenever you want.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fine cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar or molasses (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (use coconut oil for vegan)
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack
• Small bowl (for egg or flax egg)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, beat the egg (or flax egg made by mixing 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
5. Form the buns: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of dough and shape into small round buns about 3 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
6. Bake the buns: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve: Transfer the buns to a cooling rack and let them cool slightly before serving. These buns are best enjoyed warm.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version of this recipe, swap the milk for almond or oat milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace the egg with a flax egg.

To add a hint of spice, try mixing in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

If you prefer a denser texture, reduce the milk slightly to make a thicker dough.

For an extra touch of flavor, brush the tops of the buns with melted butter or coconut oil immediately after baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Belizean Powder Buns are versatile and delicious on their own, but you can also elevate your eating experience with a few serving ideas. They pair wonderfully with a spread of butter or tropical fruit jams like guava or mango.

For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a bowl of Belizean black bean soup or a hearty vegetable stew. You might also enjoy them with a cup of rich Belizean coffee or spiced tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon treat.

Looking for more flavorful recipes? Check out our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or try the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for another taste adventure.

Conclusion

Making Belizean Powder Buns at home is a rewarding experience that brings a slice of Caribbean culture right to your kitchen. These fluffy, subtly sweet buns are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you crave a comforting treat.

The combination of cornmeal and flour gives them a unique texture that’s both hearty and tender.

This recipe’s simplicity and adaptability mean you can easily customize it to suit your dietary preferences or experiment with flavors. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these buns are sure to impress and satisfy.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious to keep your culinary journey exciting and flavorful.

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