Gizzadas(Jamaican Coconut Tart)
Gizzadas are delightful Jamaican coconut tarts with a flaky crust and sweet, spiced coconut filling, perfect for dessert or tea time gatherings seeking tropical flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into flour and salt until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water gradually and work the dough as little as possible to form a stiff dough.
- Roll out the dough into 1/8-inch thickness, about 5 inches in diameter.
- Place the rolled dough on a greased baking sheet.
- Pinch the edge between fingers to make a side about 3/4 inch high.
- Fill the tart with coconut mixture and bake as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, use chilled shortening and handle the dough minimally. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a good substitute. Ensure the coconut mixture is not too watery to prevent a soggy tart. You could also experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor. Consider making a double batch to enjoy more gizzadas later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gizzadas warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of Fresh Citrus Cooler(Spa Drink) for a refreshing contrast. For a delightful brunch, consider serving them alongside Skillet Cabbage Creole to complement the sweet coconut flavor with savory notes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gizzadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, restoring some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gizzadas(Jamaican Coconut Tart) contains roughly 213 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out to ensure it’s pliable.
What can I use instead of coconut in the filling?
If you prefer a different filling, you can use finely chopped fruits like apples or pears mixed with sugar and spices. Alternatively, a chocolate ganache can create a rich, decadent twist, although this would veer away from traditional flavors.
How do I know when the gizzadas are done baking?
The gizzadas are done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-brown. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean when they are ready.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).