Costa Rican snacks offer a diverse combination of indigenous ingredients, colonial heritage, and modern culinary creativity.
From guava-filled cookies to salty plantain chips, there’s something that will surprise and satisfy every craving.
In this blog post, we’re going to unwrap 20 of the most popular exotic snacks in Costa Rica.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, an enthusiastic foodie, or someone craving tropical indulgence from afar, their snack game is more than just tasty, it’s a full sensory adventure.
Fun Fact: Plantain chips (“Platanitos”) are so popular that they are considered a national snack and come in both sweet and salty versions.
A Look at the Most Popular Exotic Snacks in Costa Rica
- Best top pick exotic snack: Maria Cookies
- Best premium exotic snack: Tosh Orange Mousse Cookies
- Best snack in chips form: Soldanza Yucca Chips
20 Popular Exotic Snacks in Costa Rica
1. Tosh Cocoa Cookies
Made with whole grains and real cocoa, their dense, crunchy texture pairs beautifully with coffee or milk, making them a favorite for morning or mid-afternoon snacks. It offers a high fiber content and is free from artificial additives. Despite being healthier, they don’t skimp on the rich, chocolatey taste that satisfies dessert lovers.
2. Chipurnoi Tropical Candies
Chipurnoi Tropical Candies is a delightful explosion of fruity flavors wrapped in tiny, colorful packages. These chewy or hard candies showcase tropical fruits like mango, passion fruit, pineapple, and guava flavors. You can find them at nearly every corner store, and they serve as a quick sugar rush during long bus rides or beach trips.
3. Tosh Chocolate Chunks & Cocoa Cookies
These cookies offer a slightly richer experience than the plain Tosh Cocoa variety. The combination of chunky chocolate pieces and cocoa-infused dough makes for a more decadent treat, perfect for those who want a dessert-like snack that still feels somewhat healthy. These cookies have also found popularity among health-conscious expats.
4. Tosh Orange Mousse Cookies
Tosh Orange Mousse Cookies are light, zesty, and perfect for hot days. The orange flavor is subtle yet refreshing, complemented by a soft, mousse-like texture inside. It’s like biting into a cloud of citrus sunshine. They’re individually wrapped, which makes them convenient for lunchboxes and travel.
5. Yemas Cookies (Guava-filled)
Yemas Cookies consist of a buttery, crumbly exterior and a sweet, sticky guava filling. The combination creates a rich and fruity bite that perfectly captures the tropical essence of Costa Rica. You’ll find them in bakeries and supermarkets, and they’re often enjoyed with coffee during cafecito time.
6. Yipy Vanilla Wafer Cookies
Yipy Wafers are layered, crispy treats with a light vanilla flavor that appeals to all ages. The multiple thin layers give them a delightful crunch, and the mild sweetness makes them addictive without being overwhelming. They’re especially popular among children and are a staple in school lunchboxes. Adults love them too, often dunking them into a hot drink or enjoying them as a light snack.
7. Guayabita Chocolates (Guava jelly-filled chocolate)
Guayabita Chocolates are a unique blend of tropical and indulgent, smooth milk chocolate on the outside and gooey guava jelly on the inside. It’s an unexpected pairing that somehow just works. These treats are considered more of a dessert and are often gifted during holidays or special occasions.
8. Cremas Pozuelo Cookies
Cremas Pozuelo are sandwich cookies filled with vanilla or chocolate cream. They have a crunchy texture and a sweet filling that makes them a childhood favorite across generations in Costa Rica. Whether enjoyed solo or dunked in milk, they’re one of those snacks that evoke nostalgia.
9. Chiky Strawberry Cookies
Chiky Strawberry Cookies feature a shortbread-style base dipped in a bright pink, strawberry-flavored icing. They’re a popular snack for kids and are sweet and fruity. You’ll find them in vending machines, supermarkets, and even airports.
10. Chiky Choco Banana Cookies
If there’s one flavor combo that screams “tropics,” it’s chocolate and banana. Chiky Choco Banana Cookies mix this duo with a crispy cookie base, offering an indulgent and playful snack. The icing has a smooth banana flavor without being artificial, while the cookie keeps it grounded with a crunch. It’s the kind of snack that satisfies a sweet tooth without being too rich.
11. Club Extra Salty Cookies
Club Extra Salty Cookies are perfect for those who prefer salty snacks over sweet ones. They pair well with cheese, ham, or even guacamole and are often used as appetizers during gatherings. Their sturdy texture makes them ideal for dipping.
12. Goma Pino Gummy Candies
Goma Pino are colorful, chewy gummies shaped like animals, fruits, and more. They come in a variety of fruity flavors and are loved by children and adults alike. They’re easy to carry around and offer a quick sugar fix. You’ll often find them at checkout counters or sold by weight at candy stores.
13. Granuts Party Mix
Granuts Party Mix is a savory blend of peanuts, corn sticks, crackers, and sometimes raisins or plantain chips. It’s the Costa Rican answer to trail mix but with a bold Latin twist. You’ll find it at parties, bars, or packed in a beach bag. It’s the kind of snack that’s perfect for social settings and is highly addictive.
14. Mantequilla Butter Cookies
Soft, crumbly, and rich in flavor, Mantequilla Butter Cookies are a simple pleasure. They melt in your mouth and are perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. These cookies are reminiscent of Danish butter cookies but with a local twist.
15. Maria Cookies
Maria Cookies are light, round, and subtly sweet. They’re commonly used in desserts like icebox cakes or eaten as-is for a quick snack. Their mild flavor makes them incredibly versatile. From toddlers to seniors, nearly everyone in Costa Rica has enjoyed Maria Cookies at some point.
16. Menta Mints
Need a breath refresh or just something light and minty? Menta Mints are the go-to. Small, hard, and long-lasting, these mints are perfect after meals. They often come in small boxes or tins and are available at just about every store. They’re the kind of snack you don’t think about until you want one.
17. Platanitos Saladitos (Salty Plantain Chips)
Made from green plantains, these chips are crispy, salty, and highly addictive. They’re a staple in Costa Rican homes and are often eaten with dips or hot sauce. Unlike sweet banana chips, Platanitos Saladitos have a savory profile that makes them a great alternative to regular potato chips.
18. Tipo Vanilla Cookies
Tipo Cookies are light, airy vanilla cookies often used in homemade desserts or eaten with milk. They’re spongy and sweet, perfect for soft cookie lovers. They’re not too filling, which makes them easy to eat by the handful. A favorite among older Costa Ricans, these cookies are both nostalgic and comforting.
19. Soldanza Banana Chips
Soldanza Banana Chips offers a sweet and crunchy alternative to traditional chips. They’re made from ripe bananas and lightly fried to preserve their natural sugars. Also, They’re ideal for those who want a snack that’s sweet but not overly processed. Soldanza chips are often found in health food sections.
20. Soldanza Yucca Chips
These are made from yucca, a starchy root vegetable, and have a thick, crunchy texture. The taste is earthy and slightly nutty, perfect for chip lovers looking to try something new. Yucca Chips are naturally gluten-free and often seasoned with salt or spices. They make a great base for nachos or dips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I buy these Costa Rican snacks outside of Costa Rica?
Yes. Many Costa Rican snack brands have online stores or can be found on international e-commerce platforms like Amazon, specialty Latin American grocery stores, and import shops worldwide.
Are Costa Rican snacks healthy?
It depends on the snack. Brands like Tosh focus on health-conscious ingredients, including whole grains and less sugar, while others are more traditional sweet or salty treats. Always check nutritional information to suit your dietary needs.
What is the best snack to try first if I’ve never had Costa Rican treats?
A great starter is Guayabita Chocolates for their unique blend of tropical guava and smooth chocolate or Platanitos Saladitos if you prefer savory snacks.
Are these snacks kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Many of these snacks, like Yipy Vanilla Wafers and Goma Pino gummy candies, are favorites among children in Costa Rica.
Do these snacks contain common allergens?
Some cookies and candies may contain gluten, nuts, or dairy. It’s best to check the packaging for allergen information, especially if you have food sensitivities.
Are Costa Rican snacks expensive?
Prices vary, but most snacks are affordable and widely available in local supermarkets and convenience stores. Imported options might be pricier due to shipping.
Wrapping It Up!
From the tropical sweetness of guava-filled cookies to the crunchy delight of salty plantain chips, these exotic treats offer a delicious window into Costa Rican flavor.
Whether you’re craving something healthy, indulgent, sweet, or savory, there’s a Costa Rican snack to satisfy every palate.
So, next time you want to take your taste buds to another level, reach for one of these exotic snacks and enjoy the rich flavors of Costa Rica.
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