The moment I took my first bite of a Jamaican gizzada, I was instantly transported to a sun-soaked beach, surrounded by the sound of waves crashing and laughter filling the air. These delightful coconut filling pastries are a celebration of flavor and texture, with a crispy crust that gives way to a rich, sweet coconut filling infused with nutmeg.
I can still picture the joyous gathering where I first encountered this dish, surrounded by friends sharing stories and indulging in homemade delights instead of fast food. If you’re searching for a delightful treat to impress guests or simply to enjoy during a cozy afternoon at home, this gizzada recipe is your answer. It’s not only a versatile dessert that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, ensuring even novice bakers can experiment with it.
Let’s dive into the world of Caribbean flavors and create something truly special together!
Why is the Jamaican gizzada recipe a must-try?
Unique Flavor Profile: Experience the tropical essence of coconut with a hint of nutmeg that sets this pastry apart.
Delightfully Simple: This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for everyone.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these pastries will win over your friends and family, serving as a sweet escape from fast food.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, paired with your favorite beverage for a delightful snack.
Cultural Connection: Baking these pastries allows you to connect with Caribbean heritage, adding a rich story to your culinary journey.
Jamaican Gizzada Recipe Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these irresistible treats!
For the Pastry
- 2 cups flour – Essential for the structure and base of your gizzadas.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 cup cold water – Helps bind the ingredients for a flaky pastry.
- 1 1/4 oz shortening – Provides tenderness to the crust.
- 1 3/4 oz margarine – Adds richness and flavor to the pastry.
For the Coconut Filling
- 1 large dry coconut, grated – The star ingredient that gives these gizzadas their signature flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the filling and adds a hint of caramel richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – Infuses a warm, aromatic touch that complements the coconut.
- 1 tablespoon water – Helps to combine the filling ingredients smoothly.
- 1/4 teaspoon butter – A touch of richness to enhance the filling’s texture.
- Maraschino cherries (optional) – A bright, playful decoration for added color and sweetness.
Embrace this Jamaican gizzada recipe and elevate your baking game with these delicious pastries!
How to Make Jamaican Gizzada
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Mix the Pastry: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 1/4 oz of shortening, and 1 3/4 oz of margarine. Gradually add 1/2 cup of cold water until a dough forms. Aim for a smooth consistency.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully fit it into your pastry dish, pressing gently to remove any air bubbles.
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Prepare the Coconut Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together 1 large grated dry coconut, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of butter. Stir until well combined, creating a rich filling.
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Fill the Pastry: Pour the creamy coconut filling into the prepared pastry, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This will give your gizzadas that delightful and indulgent center.
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Decorate (Optional): Top with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and sweetness if desired. They make a charming presentation!
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Bake: Place your gizzadas in a preheated oven and bake at 350°F until the crust turns golden brown, typically for about 25-30 minutes. Enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake!
Optional: Serve warm for the best taste experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Jamaican gizzadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pastry dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can mix the coconut filling (grated coconut, brown sugar, nutmeg, water, and butter) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken while sitting. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled pastry, fill it with the coconut mixture, and decorate if desired—this way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade pastries with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
How to Store and Freeze Jamaican Gizzada
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Room Temperature: Store gizzadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful crust and flavor.
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Fridge: If you’d like them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze these pastries for up to 3 months. Wrap each gizzada individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheating: To enjoy frozen gizzadas, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their lovely texture. Enjoy this irresistible Jamaican gizzada recipe warm!
Jamaican Gizzada Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Customize this delightful pastry with fun twists and flavor boosts that will excite your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option everyone can enjoy. Just ensure it has xanthan gum included!
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Dairy-Free: Swap margarine with your favorite non-dairy butter alternative, and omit dairy ingredients entirely for a vegan treat.
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Nutmeg Alternative: If nutmeg isn’t your favorite, cinnamon can bring a warm and comforting flavor to your coconut filling.
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Coconut Milk: For an extra creamy texture, add 1/4 cup of coconut milk to your filling mixture. It’ll heighten the tropical flavors beautifully!
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Tropical Twist: Mix in some chopped pineapple or mango into the filling for a burst of fruity goodness that will transport you right to the Caribbean!
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Nuts: Add a handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the coconut filling for an added crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft coconut.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the filling. It surprisingly enhances the sweet coconut flavor while giving it an exciting bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzling melted dark chocolate over the gizzadas can elevate this dessert into an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers everywhere will adore.
Embrace these variations to make this Jamaican gizzada recipe uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Jamaican Gizzada?
Indulging in these delightful coconut pastries opens the door to a variety of delicious pairings that will elevate your culinary experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of tropical fruits complements the sweetness of the gizzada, adding a burst of color and taste.
- Jamaican Sorrel Drink: This tart and spicy beverage balances the sweet coconut filling, making it a traditional and vibrant choice.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream melts beautifully alongside warm gizzadas, creating an irresistible contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea can enhance the flavors while providing a calming experience after a sweet treat.
These pairings not only highlight the unique qualities of Jamaican gizzadas but also create a full meal experience that brings joy to every bite!
Expert Tips for Jamaican Gizzada
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Chill the Dough: Ensure your shortening and margarine are cold before mixing for a flakier pastry. This is crucial for a light texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the pastry ingredients, mix only until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough gizzadas.
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Even Filling Distribution: Spread the coconut filling evenly in the pastry shell for consistent flavor in every bite. Uneven distribution can lead to dry spots.
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Watch the Baking: Keep an eye on your gizzadas during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can lead to a hard crust, while underbaking may leave it too soft.
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Personalize Decor: Get creative with the optional maraschino cherries or other toppings. This Jamaican gizzada recipe invites you to make it your own!
Jamaican Gizzada Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right coconut?
Absolutely! When choosing a coconut, look for one that’s heavy for its size, with no dark spots or mold on the shell. The water inside should slosh when you shake it, indicating freshness. Grated coconut should be dry and fine, which is ideal for your gizzada filling.
How should I store leftover gizzadas?
Very! To keep your gizzadas fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll last about a week. Just remember to wrap them tightly to keep them moist!
Can I freeze Jamaican gizzadas?
Absolutely! If you want to enjoy gizzadas at a later date, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Start by wrapping each gizzada individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. They’ll taste just like fresh!
What if my pastry dough is too tough?
Oh no! Overmixing can lead to tough pastry, so if your dough feels too dense, it might need a little TLC. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water at a time until you find the right consistency. Remember to handle the dough gently; this keeps your crust flaky and tender.
Are there any dietary considerations for gizzadas?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, this Jamaican gizzada recipe is nut-free and can easily be made dairy-free by substituting margarine with a plant-based alternative. Just double-check the labels to ensure all of your ingredients align with dietary needs, especially for guests or family members.
Delicious Jamaican Gizzada Recipe for a Coconut Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 1/4 oz of shortening, and 1 3/4 oz of margarine. Gradually add 1/2 cup of cold water until a dough forms.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thick and fit it into your pastry dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 large grated dry coconut, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of butter until well combined.
- Pour the creamy coconut filling into the prepared pastry.
- Top with maraschino cherries if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.