Guava Pastelitos

There’s something utterly irresistible about the flaky crunch of a pastelito giving way to a warm, gooey center of sweet guava. From the moment they come out of the oven, golden and puffed, the smell alone wraps the whole kitchen in comfort. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot coffee in the morning or sneaking one as a late-night treat, Guava Pastelitos have a magic that’s hard to beat.

Behind the Recipe

Growing up in a kitchen filled with tropical aromas, these pastelitos were a staple at every family gathering. My aunt would bake trays of them, placing them on the table like little golden gifts. They’d disappear faster than she could make them. Making them now brings back all those warm memories — sticky fingers, laughter, and the joy of sharing something so simple yet so satisfying.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Guava Pastelitos are a beloved pastry in Cuban cuisine, often found in bakeries throughout Miami and the Caribbean. The word “pastelito” means “little pastry” in Spanish, and these flaky treats are traditionally filled with guava paste, sometimes paired with cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch. They’re a cultural favorite, served during holidays, Sunday breakfasts, and celebrations big or small.

Why You’ll Love Guava Pastelitos

These treats are little pockets of joy. Here’s why they’re a must-bake:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Dress them up or keep them simple.

Budget-Friendly: Only a few ingredients are needed, and most are pantry staples.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, and they bake in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Add cream cheese, try mango instead of guava, or drizzle with honey.

Crowd-Pleasing: These always disappear fast at any gathering.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep and freeze them before baking.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat and enjoy just like fresh.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want your pastelitos to be bakery-level delicious? Keep these in mind:

• Keep puff pastry cold: Work quickly so the dough stays firm and rises beautifully.
• Cut guava paste evenly: Thin slices melt more uniformly inside the pastry.
• Seal edges with egg wash: It prevents the filling from leaking.
• Vent the tops: Small slits help steam escape and give that lovely layered puff.
• Brush before baking: An egg wash gives the perfect golden shine.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gadgets, just a few basics:

Baking Sheet: A flat tray for even baking and crisp bottoms.

Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For slicing the puff pastry and guava paste.

Pastry Brush: For brushing the egg wash on top.

Fork: To crimp and seal the edges with ease.

Ingredients in Guava Pastelitos

These few ingredients come together like magic to create flaky, fruity perfection.

1. Puff Pastry Sheets: 2 sheets, thawed – This gives the pastelitos their classic flaky layers.
2. Guava Paste: 1 cup, sliced into thin rectangles – Provides that sweet, tropical center.
3. Egg: 1 large, beaten – Used for sealing and brushing for a golden finish.
4. Granulated Sugar (optional): 1 tablespoon – Sprinkled on top for a little extra crunch and shine.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you have to improvise, and that’s totally fine.

Puff Pastry: Use crescent roll dough or pie crust for a different texture.

Guava Paste: Try strawberry jam, mango puree, or fig preserves.

Egg: Use milk or melted butter for a vegan wash alternative.

Sugar: Skip or use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Guava Paste: Thick, sweet, and deeply fragrant, this is the heart of the pastelito. It melts just enough when baked, keeping its shape while offering a luscious texture.

Puff Pastry: Pre-made puff pastry is a lifesaver, giving you flaky, buttery layers without hours of dough prep.

Instructions for Making Guava Pastelitos

These come together faster than you might think, and baking them is a joy in itself. Here’s how to make them step-by-step:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Slice your guava paste into even rectangles. Beat your egg in a small bowl for the wash.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lay one puff pastry sheet on a floured surface and cut it into equal squares (usually 9). Repeat with the second sheet.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Place a slice of guava paste in the center of half the squares. Top each with another pastry square. Press edges with a fork to seal, then make a small slit on top of each.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Brush each pastelito with egg wash. Sprinkle sugar if desired. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until golden and puffed.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let them cool slightly. You can dust with powdered sugar for extra flair.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Enjoy warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or a tropical juice.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These pastelitos balance crispy, buttery layers with a soft, sticky, fruity center. The guava paste holds its body while gently melting into the pastry. The contrast of the flaky shell with the dense, sweet filling is what makes every bite so satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few tips that make things easier and tastier:

• Use cold puff pastry for better layering.
• Don’t overfill with guava paste, or they might burst open.
• Let them cool slightly before eating to avoid burning your mouth on the hot filling.

What to Avoid

These mistakes are common, but easy to fix:

• Overfilling: The paste will ooze out. Less is more.
• Skipping egg wash: You’ll lose that golden shine.
• Using warm dough: It won’t puff properly in the oven.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 9
Calories per serving: 190

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble the pastelitos ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake straight from frozen, just add a couple more minutes to the baking time. Store baked ones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

How to Serve Guava Pastelitos

Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, or pair with coffee for a Cuban breakfast experience. They also make great additions to brunch boards or dessert platters.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got a few left? Try these ideas:

• Crumble over vanilla ice cream.
• Slice and layer into a parfait with yogurt and granola.
• Warm and top with whipped cream and berries.

Additional Tips

• For a creamier twist, add a small slice of cream cheese with the guava.
• Use decorative pastry cutters for fun shapes.
• Let kids help with crimping or brushing the tops.

Make It a Showstopper

Place them on a cake stand with a drizzle of glaze and fresh mint leaves. You can also serve with small cups of café con leche for the full vibe.

Variations to Try

• Cream Cheese Pastelitos: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the filling.
• Tropical Mix: Use guava and mango paste together.
• Mini Pastelitos: Cut smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
• Spiced Sugar Topping: Mix cinnamon into your sugar topping.
• Nutty Crunch: Add crushed almonds inside or on top before baking.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use guava jelly instead of guava paste?

Yes, but it may spread more. Try chilling it slightly before using.

Q2: Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely. Use a vegan puff pastry and skip the egg wash or use plant-based milk.

Q3: Can I freeze pastelitos after baking?

Yes, but they’re best fresh. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Q4: What if I can’t find guava paste?

Try fig jam, mango preserves, or even strawberry jam as substitutes.

Q5: Why is my puff pastry not rising?

It may have warmed up too much or your oven wasn’t hot enough.

Q6: How do I prevent filling leaks?

Seal edges well and don’t overfill. Use egg wash to help seal.

Q7: Can I add cream cheese?

Definitely. Just use a small slice to avoid leaks.

Q8: Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes! It’ll be even flakier and more flavorful.

Q9: Do they taste good cold?

They’re best warm, but still delicious at room temp.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

Of course. Just work in batches or use multiple trays.

Conclusion

Guava Pastelitos are one of those simple pleasures that instantly transport you to sun-drenched mornings and breezy island vibes. With their golden, flaky crust and sweet, fruity center, they’re the kind of treat that turns an ordinary day into something special. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

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