Holiday Food Traditions in Aruba: A Taste of the Island

The holiday season is a time for celebration and tradition around the world, and in Aruba, this festive time of year is no exception. On our One Happy Island, food is at the heart of our holiday customs, bringing families and friends together over delicious, lovingly prepared dishes.

A Taste of Home, Wherever You Are

For many Arubans, holiday meals are about more than just great food—they’re about creating and sharing moments of love, joy, and nostalgia. Christmas feasts are a highlight, with each family adding their unique twist to beloved recipes. These dishes often remind us of childhood gatherings at grandma’s house, where every bite felt like a warm hug. Even for the students living abroad, cooking traditional Aruban recipes helps bring a piece of home to any celebration.

If you’re looking to add a bit of Aruban magic to your holidays this year, try preparing one of these festive dishes, or better yet, plan your trip to the island next season to experience the full culinary splendor for yourself.

Traditional Aruban Holiday Foods

Christmas Ham (“Ham di Pasco”)

The star of the Aruban Christmas table is the roasted holiday ham, or ham di Pasco. Sweet, savory, and perfectly seasoned, this dish is a must-have for any festive gathering. The best part? The leftovers! Arubans love enjoying slices of ham for breakfast with eggs or tucked into warm bread.

Stuffed Cheese (“Keshi Yena”)

A staple of Aruban cuisine, Keshi Yena translates to “stuffed cheese” and is a dish rooted in history. Traditionally made by stuffing the rind of Edam or Gouda cheese with spiced meats and vegetables, the dish is baked until hot and bubbling. While it’s often prepared in a casserole dish today, Keshi Yena remains a crowd favorite during the holidays.

Pan Bati

A versatile side dish, pan bati (meaning “smashed bread”) is a cross between a pancake and flatbread. Made from cornmeal and flour, it is dense, slightly savory, and perfect for soaking up sauces or complementing stews, soups, or holiday meats.

Ponche Crema

Aruba’s take on eggnog, Ponche Crema, is a rich and creamy holiday beverage made with egg yolks, cream, rum, and spices. Available in various flavors like pistachio, pumpkin spice, red velvet, and white chocolate, it’s a refreshing drink best served over ice.

Oliebollen

These Dutch-inspired treats are a holiday favorite in Aruba. Imagine an oversized doughnut hole, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, often studded with raisins or currants. Deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar, oliebollen are a New Year’s Eve tradition but are enjoyed throughout December.

Cashew Cake (“Cashupete”)

A holiday dessert that takes center stage at every party in Aruba, Cashupete is a rich and indulgent cake made with creamy cashew nuts. Its luscious, velvety texture is balanced by a soft, moist crumb that makes it irresistible—even after a hearty meal, there’s always room for a second slice! During the Christmas season, Cashupete cakes are often decorated with festive red and green candied cherries, adding a cheerful touch to their presentation. Be sure to savor this delightful treat if you come across it during your holiday celebrations.

Stuffed Bread (“Pan Yena”)

Pan Yena is a holiday classic in Aruba, beloved for its customizable flavors and hearty appeal. This dish features a loaf of bread sliced vertically, with each slice stuffed with a different filling—options include ham, cheese, tuna salad, or any combination you desire. To finish, the entire loaf is coated in a layer of creamy, spreadable cream cheese, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, Pan Yena is a must-try during the festive season.

The Festive Spirit of Aruba

Holiday celebrations in Aruba are a vibrant mix of tradition and tropical flair. Twinkling lights decorate the streets, festive music fills the air, and the island buzzes with holiday cheer. Food plays a central role in these celebrations, making every gathering a feast of flavors and memories.

If you’re lucky enough to visit Aruba during the holiday season, you’ll find restaurants and hotels offering special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Be sure to try these traditional dishes.

Happy Holidays, and bon appetites from Aruba!