Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) Recipe
If you’ve ever strolled by a Cuban bakery, chances are you’ve been captivated by the glass displays brimming with flaky, golden pastries. Among the most beloved are Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries)—tender, buttery puff pastry filled with ribbons of sweet guava and creamy cheese, then baked until gloriously crisp. This recipe brings the magic home, giving you that irresistible sweet-and-salty treat in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving them with a strong Cuban coffee or as a showstopping dessert at your next gathering, Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s incredible how a handful of humble ingredients come together to create something so memorable. Each one plays its part—sweet, tangy, salty, or buttery—to build that iconic flavor and texture Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) are famous for.
- Puff pastry sheets: Store-bought options like Pepperidge Farm are a huge time-saver and bake up extra flaky and golden.
- Guava paste: The heart of these pastries—look for Conchita or Goya brands for an authentic, fruity punch.
- Cream cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, tangy richness that balances out the sweetness beautifully.
- Large egg: Whisked and brushed on top, this helps your pastries bake with a gorgeous, bakery-style sheen.
- Cuban coffee or Café con Leche (optional): While not baked inside, nothing rounds out the experience like a shot of strong Cuban coffee or a creamy café con leche alongside.
How to Make Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries)
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s piping hot and ready for that all-important puff. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup as easy as possible—no one wants to scrub caramelized guava off a tray!
Step 2: Slice the Fillings and Set Up the Pastry
Cut the guava paste into thin slices—you want enough so that each pastry gets a generous fill. If you’re using cream cheese, slice it into slightly thinner pieces; this makes layering easy and ensures the cheese melts perfectly. Unfold one sheet of puff pastry and set it gently on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Space about six slices of guava paste evenly over the pastry sheet, leaving about 1–2 inches between each for perfect, individual pockets. Top each guava slice with a piece of cream cheese if you’re feeling indulgent—Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) are even better with that creamy boost.
Step 4: Top and Cut
Unfold the second sheet of puff pastry and lay it carefully over the filled bottom. With a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into nine even squares right on the sheet. Lightly score the tops—just a few shallow lines adds those classic bakery-look details, plus it encourages even rising in the oven. Don’t separate the squares; they’ll bake up together and easily pull apart when done.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush each square generously with your whisked egg for that stellar golden finish. Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) are puffed and deeply golden. If your kitchen smells like a Cuban café, you know you’re on the right track!
How to Serve Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries)
Garnishes
Give your pastries a final flourish by dusting them with a touch of powdered sugar or drizzling with honey for extra shine. A few sprigs of fresh mint or a scattering of citrus zest can instantly elevate their presentation, especially if you’re serving guests.
Side Dishes
Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) practically beg to be paired with something to sip. Strong Cuban coffee or café con leche is the traditional companion—its robust, roasted notes balance out the sweet, creamy pastry. For a brunch spread, add a fresh fruit salad or a few slices of sharp Manchego cheese on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
You can cut Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) into minis before baking for a fun party platter or brunch board—think bite-sized delights! Stack them pyramid-style or nestle them between tropical leaves for an extra splash of color on your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely, then seal them in an airtight container. They stay flaky and delicious for up to two days at room temperature, or a couple extra days in the fridge—though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
Want Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) at your fingertips, anytime? These pastries freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic and pop into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—reheat from frozen and they’re just as good as fresh.
Reheating
To bring back the bakery-fresh texture, warm individual Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. The pastry will turn perfectly crisp, the cheese gooey, and the guava fragrant. Avoid microwaving unless you’re truly in a rush, as it can make the pastry soft.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Absolutely! Soft cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone are tasty alternatives, though cream cheese is classic for its rich, tangy flavor and creamy melt.
Where can I find guava paste?
Look for guava paste in the Latin or international section of your supermarket, or at specialty grocers. It’s usually sold in dense, sugary blocks—easy to slice and layer into pastries.
Do I need to thaw the puff pastry before using?
Yes, let your puff pastry thaw in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes. Cold but pliable pastry is easiest to work with and puffs up the best.
Can I make Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the pastries, cover with plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready, just egg wash and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven flakiness.
What’s the best way to cut neat squares?
Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the layered pastry into squares before baking. Chilling the assembled pastry for a few minutes before cutting will give you the cleanest lines and beautiful, bakery-ready results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a little Cuban joy to your kitchen, you absolutely have to try Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries). They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and every bite is pure nostalgia. Go ahead—brew some coffee, gather your friends and family, and share this sweet, flaky delight!
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Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso (Guava & Cheese Pastries) Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 pastries 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these delicious Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso, a traditional Cuban pastry filled with guava paste and cream cheese, wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Sheets
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed)
Guava Paste
- 14 oz guava paste (Conchita brand)
Cream Cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese (optional)
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg (whisked)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400ºF. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut guava and cream cheese into slices. Unfold one pastry sheet on the cookie sheet.
- Layer Fillings: Place guava slices on pastry sheet, add cream cheese if desired. Top with the second pastry sheet.
- Cut and Score: Cut into 9 squares, score the tops. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For added sweetness, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
- These pastries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Pastelitos de Guayaba Y Queso, Guava Cheese Pastries, Cuban Pastries, Cuban Dessert, Guava Pastry Recipe
