Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos

Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos are classic Cuban treats that offer a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. These flaky, golden pastries are filled with a signature combination of sweet, tropical guava paste and rich, creamy cheese, making them a beloved staple for both breakfast and dessert.

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Using simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic of a Cuban bakery at home. The preparation takes only 15 minutes, resulting in eight beautiful pastelitos that are perfect for sharing with family or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients

• Pastry: 1 package (about 400 g) puff pastry sheets, thawed
• Filling: 150 g guava paste, cut into thin slices
• Filling: 100 g cream cheese, softened
• Topping: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Topping: 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 8 equal rectangles (16 total).

Step 3

Place half the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4

On each rectangle, place a thin slice of guava paste and about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese, leaving a border around the edges.

Step 5

Brush the edges with a little water. Top each with another rectangle of pastry, pressing the edges to seal.

Step 6

Use a fork to crimp the edges and gently score the tops with a knife for steam to escape.

Step 7

Brush the tops with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sugar if using.

Step 8

Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden and puffed.

Step 9

Let cool slightly before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfect seal, don't skip brushing the pastry edges with water before placing the top layer. Crimp the edges firmly with a fork to prevent the sweet filling from escaping during the baking process. Scoring the top not only lets steam escape but adds a professional aesthetic to your pastries.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For those looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese works well as a substitute. If guava paste is unavailable in your area, quince paste is an excellent alternative that provides a similar texture and complementary flavor to the cream cheese.

Serviervorschläge

These pastelitos are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For the most traditional experience, serve them alongside a hot Cuban coffee. They also make a fantastic addition to any brunch spread or as a portable snack for sweet cravings on the go.

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With approximately 235 calories per serving, these vegetarian treats are an indulgent yet manageable snack. Each pastelito contains 12g of fat, 27g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein, providing a satisfyingly rich experience that honors classic Cuban culinary traditions.

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Questions & Answers

→ Can I make pastelitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with egg wash just before baking. You can also freeze unbaked pastelitos for up to 3 months—bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

→ What can I use instead of guava paste?

Quince paste (membrillo) makes an excellent substitute with similar texture and flavor profile. You could also use fig paste, dulce de membrillo, or thick fruit preserves like apricot or pineapple for a different twist.

→ Why are my pastelitos not puffing properly?

Ensure your puff pastry is cold when working with it. If it warms up too much, the butter layers melt before baking, preventing proper puffing. Keep unbaked pastries refrigerated until the oven is fully preheated.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely. Homemade puff pastry will yield excellent results, though it requires significantly more time and effort. Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly well and is the traditional choice for this preparation.

→ How do I store leftover pastelitos?

Store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 180°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness—microwaving will make them soggy.

→ Can I make these savory?

Yes. Replace the guava paste with savory fillings like ham, cooked ground beef seasoned with sofrito, or just cream cheese for a simpler version. The pastry preparation method remains the same.