If you grew up in the Caribbean, chances are you’ve enjoyed a slice of Cassava Pone at some point in your life. This rich, chewy dessert is a staple in many West Indian households and is especially popular in Guyanese cuisine. Made with grated cassava, coconut, and warm spices, pone is one of those desserts that’s simple in ingredients but big on flavor.

It’s dense, moist, and not overly sweet, making it the perfect “moreish” kind of dessert. Unlike fluffy cakes, this one has a chewy texture that sets it apart, and that’s exactly why it’s popular.

What is Cassava Pone?

Cassava Pone is a Caribbean dessert made with grated cassava (yuca), coconut, spices, and sometimes pumpkin or sweet potato. The texture is sticky and pudding-like on the inside with a slightly crisp top after baking. It’s one of those desserts that highlights the resourcefulness of Caribbean cooking—using root vegetables like cassava to create something indulgent and comforting. It’s also a gluten free dessert for those that may be looking for an alternative.

Key Ingredients in Cassava Pone

• Cassava (yuca): The star of the dish, cassava gives pone its chewy texture. Fresh or frozen cassava is peeled, grated, and used raw in the batter.
• Coconut: Adds richness and flavor—both grated fresh coconut or packaged grated coconut can be used.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes cloves give it that warm, nostalgic Caribbean flavor.
• Milk & butter: These make the dessert rich and moist.
• Brown sugar: Gives pone a deep caramel flavor.

How to Make Cassava Pone

Making cassava pone is easier than it looks. The hardest part is grating the cassava, but if you have a food processor, that step is much faster. Once grated, everything gets mixed together into a thick batter and baked until golden brown with a slightly crisp top.

The result? A chewy, sticky, and flavorful dessert that’s impossible to eat just one slice of.

Serving Suggestions

Cassava Pone can be enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or cooled and sliced into squares. It pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or coffee and makes a lovely addition to a holiday table or Sunday gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic taste of Guyanese and Caribbean tradition
• Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
• Naturally gluten-free since cassava is used instead of wheat flour
• Keeps well for days—if it lasts that long!

Cassava Pone is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of home and heritage. Every bite brings back memories of family, celebrations, and the warmth of Caribbean kitchens. If you’ve never tried it before, this is your sign to bake a tray and experience the magic of this humble but unforgettable dessert.

Other Dessert Recipes To Try

• Ginger Fudge
• Coconut Ice Cream
• Coconut Sweet Bread
• Guyanese Parsad/Mohanbog
• Caribbean Rum Cake
• Tres Leches Cake