Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos

Flaky, golden pastries filled with sweet guava paste and creamy cheese, these classic Cuban treats are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Known as pastelitos, they offer a perfect harmony of tropical fruit sweetness and rich, velvety cream cheese, all wrapped in layers of buttery puff pastry.

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Creating these authentic Cuban snacks in your own kitchen is a rewarding experience. The process is straightforward, turning a few simple ingredients into a professional-looking pastry that tastes like it came straight from a Havana bakery.

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)

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 the pastry rises properly, make sure the puff pastry is still cold when it goes into the oven. If the dough gets too soft while you are filling it, place the baking sheet in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese. If guava paste is unavailable in your area, quince paste (membrillo) serves as an excellent substitute, offering a similar texture and fruity flavor.

Serviervorschläge

These pastelitos are best enjoyed either warm or at room temperature. For the most authentic experience, serve them alongside a strong cup of Cuban coffee (cafecito) or a café con leche.

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With their beautiful golden layers and vibrant pink filling, these Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos are a delightful way to explore Cuban cuisine. They are simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough to serve at any gathering.

Recipe FAQs

→ 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 popping them in the oven. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked pastries 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 a similar texture and sweetness. You could also use thick apricot preserves, fig paste, or even dulce de leche, though the flavor profile will change slightly from the traditional Cuban version.

→ Why do my pastelitos leak during baking?

Leaking usually happens from overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per pastry and leave a clean border around the edges. Press firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork. Also make sure to cut small steam vents in the top pastry layer.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will yield excellent results. Just ensure it's rolled to about 1/8-inch thickness and well-chilled before working with it. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your pastry recipe.

→ How do I store leftover pastelitos?

Store cooled pastelitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. To recrisp, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make these savory instead?

Definitely! Skip the sugar topping and fill with savory ingredients like ham and Swiss cheese, spinach and feta, or seasoned ground beef. The preparation method remains exactly the same. These variations are popular as appetizers or light meals.