Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos

Transport your taste buds to the streets of Havana with these homemade Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos. These iconic Cuban pastries feature flaky, golden puff pastry filled with the irresistible combination of sweet guava paste and rich, creamy cheese. Whether you are serving them for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat, they provide a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite.

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The secret to a great pastelito is the contrast between the crispy, buttery layers and the gooey center. By scoring the pastry and using an egg wash, you achieve that professional bakery look and feel right in your own kitchen. These treats are simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress any guest.

Ingredients

• Pastry: 1 package (about 400 g) puff pastry sheets, thawed
• Filling: 150 g guava paste, cut into thin slices; 100 g cream cheese, softened
• Topping: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 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 maximum puffiness, make sure your puff pastry stays cold until it enters the hot oven. If the dough gets too warm and soft while you are filling the rectangles, simply pop the tray into the fridge for 10 minutes before baking. Always use a sharp knife to score the tops to ensure the steam escapes properly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For those looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese works well in this recipe. If you cannot find guava paste at your local market, quince paste is a suitable substitute that offers a similar sweetness. You can also experiment with different shapes, like triangles, by cutting the pastry into squares instead of rectangles.

Serviervorschläge

These pastelitos are best served warm to fully enjoy the melted filling. They are traditionally paired with a strong Cuban coffee or a café con leche. They also keep well at room temperature, making them a great option for bake sales or office treats.

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Enjoy the authentic taste of these Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos. They are a simple yet elegant way to bring a piece of Cuban culinary culture into your home, offering a tropical sweetness that is hard to resist.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What are pastelitos?

Pastelitos are traditional Cuban pastries made with puff pastry and various fillings. The most classic combination features guava paste and cream cheese, creating the perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors. These handheld treats are a staple in Cuban bakeries and homes, typically enjoyed for breakfast with coffee or as a dessert.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble the pastries up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them unbaked. When ready to serve, simply brush with egg wash and bake. For longer storage, freeze assembled pastries on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake frozen pastries, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What if I can't find guava paste?

Quince paste (membrillo) makes an excellent substitute with similar texture and sweetness. Alternatively, use thick apricot preserves or fig paste. The flavor profile will change slightly, but you'll still achieve that wonderful fruit-and-cheese combination that makes these pastries so irresistible.

→ Why did my pastries leak during baking?

Leaking usually happens when the edges aren't sealed properly or the filling is too close to the border. Make sure to leave a clean border around all edges, press firmly to seal, and crimp with a fork. Don't overfill the pastries—a thin slice of guava and tablespoon of cheese is sufficient.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will yield exceptional results, though store-bought works perfectly well for a quicker version. If making your own, ensure it's rolled thinly and kept very cold throughout the process. The key is maintaining those distinct butter layers for maximum flakiness.

→ How do I store leftover pastelitos?

Store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though the pastry may lose some crispness. To refresh, warm them in a 180°C oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this makes the pastry soggy.