Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, flaky pastry that bursts with the tropical sweetness of ripe guava and the rich, creamy indulgence of cream cheese-welcome to the world of Tropical Delight: Irresistible Guava & Cream Cheese Pastelitos. These bite-sized treasures are a playful dance of flavors and textures, where the vibrant, sun-kissed guava meets the smooth, tangy cream cheese, all wrapped in a delicate, buttery crust. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat, an afternoon snack, or a festive dessert, guava and cream cheese pastelitos have captured the hearts of food lovers around the globe. Join us as we dive into the history, preparation, and irresistible charm of this tropical pastry that promises a little slice of paradise in every bite.
Tropical Delight: Irresistible Guava & Cream Cheese Pastelitos
Delve into the world of tropical flavors with this delectable recipe for guava and cream cheese pastelitos. These flaky, golden pockets marry the luscious sweetness of ripe guava with the smooth creaminess of cheese, creating a dreamy dessert that transports you straight to sun-soaked Caribbean shores. Passed down through generations and cherished at family gatherings, these pastelitos blend vibrant tropical charm with comforting textures that make every bite a celebration.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Yield
Makes about 12 pastelitos, perfect for sharing or indulging over a few days.
Difficulty Level
Medium – While the pastry base requires some finesse, the overall process is satisfying and approachable for cooks with basic pastry skills.
Ingredients
- For the Pastry Base:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, ice-cold and cubed
- ½ cup ice water, plus extra if needed
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup guava paste, chopped into small cubes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Assembly & Baking:
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Turbinado sugar, to sprinkle (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, quickly blend in the ice-cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse peas.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, stirring gently with a fork until dough just comes together. Avoid overworking to keep the pastry tender. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll chilled dough into a 12×12-inch square of about ⅛-inch thickness.
- Cut and Fill: Cut the dough into 12 equal squares. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cream cheese mixture and 1 tablespoon of cubed guava paste into the center of each square.
- Shape Pastelitos: Fold each square diagonally into triangles, sealing edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Place pastelitos on a greased baking sheet. Brush each with the beaten egg and optionally sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a sparkling finish.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake pastelitos for 18-20 minutes, until pastry is golden brown and puffed. Rotate the tray halfway to ensure even browning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set mildly.
Tips for Success with Tropical Delight: Irresistible Guava & Cream Cheese Pastelitos
- Butter Temperature: Keep your butter ice-cold to create the signature flaky layers in the pastry. Avoid letting it soften before kneading.
- Sealing Edges: Press edges firmly and crimp with a fork. If needed, brush the edges with a bit of water or egg wash for extra adhesion.
- Guava Paste: For a smoother bite, chop the guava paste finely or gently warm it to soften before filling.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare dough and filling up to 2 days in advance. Store wrapped pastry dough in the fridge and filling in an airtight container.
- Egg Wash Alternatives: Use milk or cream for a softer, less shiny finish.
- Prevent Sogginess: Bake on a preheated baking stone or a dark sheet for better crisping.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Tropical Dessert Experience
Present these pastelitos warm with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing coconut sorbet to balance rich creaminess with tropical freshness. Garnish with edible flowers, fresh mint leaves, or thin slices of fresh guava for a vibrant, inviting plate. For gatherings, serve alongside a bright tropical fruit cocktail to indulge your guests in a full Caribbean-inspired feast.
| Nutrient | Per Pastelito (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
Explore more tropical treats like our Caribbean Mango Tart to broaden your pastry horizons.
Q&A
Q&A on Tropical Delight: Irresistible Guava & Cream Cheese Pastelitos
Q1: What exactly are guava & cream cheese pastelitos?
A1: Guava & cream cheese pastelitos are flaky, golden pastries filled with a luscious blend of sweet guava and creamy, tangy cream cheese. Originating from Latin American and Caribbean culinary traditions, these delightful treats blend tropical fruitiness with smooth indulgence for a perfect bite.
Q2: What makes guava such a popular choice for pastelitos?
A2: Guava’s natural sweetness and fragrant aroma make it a star ingredient in many tropical desserts. Its vibrant, slightly tangy flavor balances beautifully with creamy cheese, creating a harmonious taste experience that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Q3: How do cream cheese and guava complement each other in this pastry?
A3: Cream cheese adds a rich, velvety texture and a subtle tanginess that perfectly offsets the guava’s sweet, fruity punch. Together, they create a luscious filling that melts in your mouth, making each pastelito irresistibly delicious.
Q4: Are pastelitos difficult to make at home?
A4: Not at all! With a little patience and basic baking supplies, you can easily make these tropical delights at home. Store-bought puff pastry simplifies the process, while assembling and baking take less than an hour-perfect for a weekend treat or special occasion.
Q5: Can I customize the filling beyond guava and cream cheese?
A5: Absolutely! While guava and cream cheese are classic, feel free to experiment. Try adding a hint of cinnamon or vanilla to the cream cheese, or swap guava for other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple. The pastelito is a versatile canvas for your fruity creativity.
Q6: What occasions are pastelitos best suited for?
A6: These pastelitos shine at brunches, afternoon teas, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet tropical escape. Their eye-catching appearance and inviting aroma make them a crowd-pleaser for parties and family celebrations alike.
Q7: How should guava & cream cheese pastelitos be served and stored?
A7: Best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven, pastelitos can be served on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness-just reheat gently before serving.
Q8: What makes guava & cream cheese pastelitos a “tropical delight”?
A8: It’s the perfect marriage of sweet, tangy guava with smooth cream cheese wrapped in flaky pastry, evoking the sunny, vibrant essence of the tropics. Every bite transports you to a sun-soaked island paradise, making these pastelitos genuinely irresistible.
In Summary
As the golden, flaky layers of these guava and cream cheese pastelitos melt in your mouth, you’re not just tasting a pastry-you’re savoring a vibrant fusion of tropical sweetness and creamy indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a sunny brunch treat or a luxurious afternoon snack, these delightful pastelitos bring a slice of paradise to your kitchen. So next time the craving strikes, let this irresistible duo transport you to sun-dappled shores with every blissful bite. Tropical delight, indeed-sweet, simple, and utterly unforgettable.
