Guava and Cream Cheese Pastelitos (Print View)

Golden puff pastry pockets filled with sweet guava paste and cream cheese, ready in 35 minutes

# Components:

→ Pastry

01 - 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed (approximately 14 oz)

→ Filling

02 - 5.3 oz guava paste, cut into thin slices
03 - 3.5 oz cream cheese, softened

→ Topping

04 - 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
05 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, optional for sprinkling

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 8 equal rectangles, yielding 16 total rectangles.
03 - Place half the pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
04 - On each rectangle, layer a thin slice of guava paste and approximately 1 tablespoon of softened cream cheese, leaving a clear border around all edges.
05 - Brush the borders with water. Top each filled rectangle with a second pastry rectangle, pressing edges firmly to seal.
06 - Use a fork to crimp all edges. Gently score the pastry tops with a knife to allow steam escape during baking.
07 - Brush the tops of each pastelito with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sugar if desired.
08 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until pastries are golden brown and puffed.
09 - Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Authentic Cuban flavors in a simple, home-baked version.
  • Uses puff pastry for effortless, professional-looking flaky layers.
  • A perfect vegetarian-friendly dessert or breakfast option.
  • Requires only 35 minutes from preparation to table.
02 -
  • Ensure the pastry edges are well-sealed with the fork to prevent the guava paste from leaking during baking.
  • Scoring the tops is an essential step to allow steam to escape, which keeps the pastry crisp.
  • Letting the pastelitos cool slightly is important as the guava filling becomes very hot when baked.
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