This is an adopted recipe that I've not yet had the chance to try, although it looks wonderful. I wasn't even sure what annatto seeds were, so I looked it up and here's what I found, from http://www.cuisinenet.com/glossary/achiote.html: "The small hard achiote seed, which is also called the annatto seed, is sold both whole and ground. It is prized in Indian and Hispanic cuisine for its slightly bitter, earthy flavor and russet color. In the United States, annatto extract is used to color butter, margarine, and cheese." I would say that if you can't find it, to try it without the annatto seed. That's probably what I'll do when I eventually make these. Any reviews by those who make this recipe before I do (or after, of course) would be appreciated. Thanks!