It’s hard to imagine a Jamaica without some of our favourite local pastries. Like ackee and saltfish, these pastries have become staples in homes across the island. Here is a list of some of the desserts you most likely had while growing up. If you haven’t had them in a while, this might be wake up call to go try them again!

Peanut Drops

Wherever there’s a long line of vehicular traffic or a sporting event, you are sure to spot a hawker (a person who travels about selling goods, typically advertising them by shouting) selling the famous and well-liked peanut drops. Also found in most bakeries, this delicious treat is made with roasted peanut, ginger, water and spices. Made to eat for any time of the day, it is perfect for someone who has a sweet tooth.

Gizzada

This Jamaican and Portuguese cuisine is also known as the grizadda and in Portugal it is referred to as the pinch-me-round. This popular treat has a buttery crust filled with a mixture of spices, sugar, grated coconut and ginger. Like the peanut drops, they are available in most bakeries and can be bought from a hawker who might be selling pastries.

Tamarind Balls

A Jamaican specialty, the sweet and sour tamarind pods are shelled, kneaded and coated with both brown and white sugar. In some Caribbean countries hot pepper is added to make the treat spicy. Tamarind season runs from roughly January to March.

Grater Cake

Also known as Pink Top, these local favourites although called ‘cake’ is actually candy. Grater Cakes are made with flavouring, coconut and sugar. This creamy, sticky and sweet snack is enjoyed by both adults and kids and can be homemade or found purchased in a bakery or from a hawker.

Potato Pudding

Potato pudding has become a staple dessert in households across the island. It contains ingredients such as milk, coconut and potato (of course), and is enjoyed not only as a dessert, but a snack as well.

Coconut Drops

This toffee-like desert is a traditional Jamaican pastry made from coconut , sugar, ginger and water. Like most of the items on this list, the coconut drops can be found in just about any bakery or bought from a vendor on the street.

Blue Draws

Blue Draws, of West African origin, is made of freshly grated coconut, coconut milk, sweet potato, green banana and mixed spices. After the ingredients are put together, it is then wrapped in banana leaf and boiled. This beloved treat is also referred to as duckunoo or tie-a-leaf.