Save Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with these Guava Cheese Pastries. These flaky, golden pastries are filled with luscious guava paste and creamy melted cheese, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
Save These treats, often inspired by traditional Latin American snacks, transform simple ingredients into an elegant dessert. Whether you choose creamy cream cheese or stretchy mozzarella, the result is a beautifully puffed pastry that captures the essence of tropical fusion.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet (about 250 g) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 150 g guava paste, cut into 8 equal pieces
- 100 g cream cheese, cut into 8 equal pieces (or use mozzarella for a stretchier texture)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. Cut into 8 equal rectangles.
- Step 3
- Place a piece of guava paste and a piece of cream cheese (or mozzarella) in the center of each rectangle.
- Step 4
- Fold each rectangle over the filling to form a square or triangle. Press edges with a fork to seal.
- Step 5
- Transfer pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Step 6
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Step 7
- Cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best puff, keep the pastry dough cold until you are ready to assemble. When sealing the edges with a fork, make sure the pressure is firm enough to prevent the guava filling from leaking during the baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling before folding. If you prefer a more sophisticated or tangier profile, swap the standard cream cheese for goat cheese. You can also experiment with different shapes like triangles or smaller bite-sized squares.
Serviervorschläge
These pastries are best enjoyed warm when the filling is still molten. They pair perfectly with a fresh cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon snack or can be served as a light dessert after a Latin American-inspired meal.
Save With their buttery layers and vibrant heart, these Guava Cheese Pastries are a simple yet impressive way to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Enjoy the perfect harmony of textures and flavors in every golden bite.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use fresh guava instead of guava paste?
Guava paste works best because it's concentrated and holds its shape during baking. Fresh guava would release too much moisture and make the pastry soggy. If you can't find guava paste, guava membrillo or thick guava preserves are good alternatives.
- → What cheese works best for these pastries?
Cream cheese offers a mild, creamy flavor that balances the sweet guava perfectly. Mozzarella creates a stretchier, more melty texture. For something different, try goat cheese for tanginess or queso fresco for a crumblier, more authentic Latin American taste.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pastries, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them unbaked. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them excellent for entertaining or meal prep.
- → Why do I need to seal the edges with a fork?
Pressing the edges with a fork does two important things: it creates a tight seal so the delicious filling doesn't leak out during baking, and it creates a decorative pattern that looks professional. The pressure also helps the layers of puff pastry adhere together properly.
- → How do I store leftover pastries?
Store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To refresh them, reheat in a 180°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- → What's the best way to cut puff pastry evenly?
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter and avoid sawing motions, which can compress the layers. Make clean, decisive cuts. You can also use a ruler to mark equal sizes before cutting. If the pastry gets too warm, chill it for 10 minutes before cutting for cleaner edges.