Benny Cake

Name: Benny Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Bahamian
Ingredients: 2 cups sesame seeds; 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Benny Cake (BEN-ee kayk)

Sesame Seed Candy

⏱ Prep Time 10 min

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 185 kcal

Crunchy sesame seed brittle made with caramelized sugar. A traditional Bahamian sweet treat.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 4.0g

Carbs 22.0g

Fat 9.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ sesame

Equipment Needed

skillet saucepan baking sheet

Presentation Guide

Vessel: plate

Garnishes: extra sesame seeds

Accompaniments: tea, coffee

Ingredients

2 cups sesame seeds
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

1
Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
2
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat without stirring until amber colored.
3
Remove from heat. Quickly stir in toasted sesame seeds, vanilla, and salt.
4
Pour onto a greased baking sheet or parchment paper.
5
Spread thin with a spatula. Let cool completely.
6
Break into pieces once hardened.

💡

Did You Know?

Benny cakes get their name from the West African word benne for sesame seeds, brought to the Bahamas by enslaved Africans.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

skillet
saucepan
baking sheet

Garnishing

extra sesame seeds

Accompaniments

tea, coffee

The Story Behind Benny Cake

Benny cake is a direct link to the West African roots of Bahamian culture. Sesame seeds were brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans, and this simple candy has been made in the islands for over 200 years.

On the Calendar: Made year-round and sold at markets, festivals, and by street vendors.

Legacy: Benny cake is one of the oldest surviving Afro-Bahamian confections, a sweet reminder of the cultural heritage that shapes the islands.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed snack, any time 📜 Origins: 18th century

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