There’s something undeniably enchanting about the first bite of a warm guava pastry, each flaky layer giving way to a creamy, tropical filling that dances on your palate. As I whipped up these delightful treats, memories of sun-soaked afternoons at a Cuban bakery flooded my mind, where the air is rich with the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods. Picture this: golden puff pastries filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese and sweet guava paste, easily crafted in your own kitchen in no time at all.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a decadent dessert, these Easy Guava Pastries with Cream Cheese allow you to enjoy a taste of Latin American culinary tradition without the usual fuss. Using store-bought puff pastry means that anyone can whip these up, making your home an aromatic haven. Ready to impress your friends, family, or just treat yourself? Let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe that will surely become a go-to in your cooking repertoire!
Why are Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: Experience the perfect blend of creamy cream cheese and sweet guava paste that creates a symphony of taste in every bite.
Quick & Easy: With store-bought puff pastry, these treats come together in no time—ideal for busy days or impromptu gatherings!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert; they adapt beautifully to any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their delightful aroma and beautiful golden color make these pastries a hit at any gathering, impressing friends and family alike.
Cultural Journey: Indulge in a piece of Cuban tradition in your own kitchen, evoking fond memories of sunlit bakeries and heritage.
Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Use thawed sheets from the store for a quick and flaky base.
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Full-fat cream cheese adds the rich, creamy texture needed for balance.
• Guava Paste – This brings the sweetness and tropical flair; feel free to swap with mango or apricot paste for a twist!
For Assembly
• Egg White – Acts as a binder and glaze, ensuring a golden finish; omit for vegan variations, but the sheen won’t be the same.
• Sparkling Sugar – Adds a delightful crunch on top; regular sugar can be used if you prefer a subtle sweetness.
Enjoy whipping up these Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese that carry a taste of Cuba into your home!
How to Make Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly golden crust as your pastries bake.
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Roll out each sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares, totaling 8 squares to hold your delicious filling.
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Slice the cream cheese and guava paste into 1 oz pieces, about ¼-inch thick. This helps them melt beautifully within the pastry!
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Place one slice of cream cheese and one slice of guava paste diagonally on each pastry square. This combination will ooze wonderful flavors!
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Fold the opposite corners of the pastry squares over the filling and seal the edges by dabbing with whisked egg white. This step is key for keeping in all that tasty goodness!
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Arrange the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining egg white and sprinkle them with sparkling sugar for that extra crunch and shine.
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Bake the pastries for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed and a beautiful golden brown. You’ll love the mouthwatering aroma!
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Cool the pastries on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set up perfectly and prevents an oozy surprise.
Optional: Serve these delightful pastries with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese
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Perfect Thawing: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and results in a perfectly flaky texture.
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Filling Management: Avoid overfilling the pastries to prevent any bursting during baking. Each piece of guava paste and cream cheese should easily fit without excess.
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Sealing Technique: Seal the edges tightly with your fingers or a fork for better containment of the fillings. A well-sealed pastry will ensure the rich flavors stay inside.
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Egg Wash Application: Brush the pastries with a light coat of egg white before baking for that enticing golden brown finish. Don’t skip this step if you want that bakery-style sheen!
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Storage Tips: Enjoy fresh for the best texture! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, but reheating in the oven is recommended to regain crispiness.
What to Serve with Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese?
Enjoying warm, flaky guava pastries opens the door to so many delicious pairings that enhance their tropical delight.
- Cuban Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of this coffee perfectly complement the sweet and creamy pastries, creating a delightful breakfast duo.
- Café con Leche: This creamy coffee made with steamed milk adds a lush contrast, balancing the sweetness of the guava pastries beautifully.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and papaya provides a burst of freshness that pairs elegantly with the buttery pastries.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the pastries can add a touch of extra sweetness, creating an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
- Flavored Iced Tea: Citrus or passion fruit iced tea serves as a refreshing counterpoint, mingling with the tropical notes found in the guava.
- Chilled Coconut Water: This light, hydrating beverage enhances the Caribbean vibe, making it a perfect accompaniment to your delightful treats.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of the pastries in rich chocolate for a decadent dessert experience that’s sure to impress.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and smooth texture to your pastries.
- ** vanilla Bean Ice Cream:** Pair these pastries with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream for an irresistible dessert that melds warm and cold.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves on the side can brighten the flavor and add a lovely aroma, elevating the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Guava Pastries with Cream Cheese are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful Cuban treats without last-minute stress! You can assemble the pastries up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps up to sealing the edges. Once assembled, place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This keeps the puff pastry fresh and ensures that they’ll puff perfectly when baked. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush them with egg white and bake directly from the fridge for about 25-30 minutes, ensuring they are just as delicious and flaky as if you made them fresh!
Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe, allowing your creativity to shine through!
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Fruit Paste Swap: Replace guava paste with mango or apricot paste for an exciting flavor variation.
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Flavored Cream Cheese: Use flavored cream cheese, such as vanilla or strawberry, to elevate the filling and add unexpected delight.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and omit the egg for a delightful plant-based treat.
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Add Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese filling for a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the tropical flavor.
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Cheese Blend: Mix cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a richer, creamier filling that brings new texture to every bite.
Transform each batch by experimenting with these variations, and watch as your pastries become uniquely yours!
Storage Tips for Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese
Room Temperature: Store pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate the guava pastries for up to 5 days. Just be aware they may lose some of their crispiness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap pastries tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—great for batch cooking!
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Enjoy your delicious guava pastries fresh out of the oven!
Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right puff pastry?
Absolutely! When choosing puff pastry, opt for high-quality, all-butter varieties for the best flavor and texture. Make sure it’s well-thawed before use, ideally at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid packages with dark spots or tears, as these can compromise the flaky layers you’re aiming for in your pastries.
What’s the best way to store leftover guava pastries?
Very! For the best results, store your guava pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful texture. If you’re hoping to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days but be mindful that they may lose some crunch. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I freeze guava pastries? How do I do it?
Of course! To freeze your guava pastries, follow these steps: first, let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each pastry tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Next, place the wrapped pastries into a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Why are my pastries leaking during baking?
Oh no! Leaking can happen if the pastries are overfilled or if the edges aren’t sealed tightly. Ensure you’re using the correct amount of cream cheese and guava paste—a thin slice is usually sufficient. When sealing, press firmly to close up the edges, considering a fork to crimp if you prefer. This tight closure helps contain all that delicious filling.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This guava pastries recipe contains dairy from cream cheese, so those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. If you’re cooking for kids or pets, be sure to keep these tasty treats out of their reach, as certain ingredients like sugar and guava paste could pose a risk to their diet. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens!
Guava Pastries Recipe with Cream Cheese: Cuban Delight Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out each sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 equal squares.
- Slice the cream cheese and guava paste into 1 oz pieces.
- Place one slice of cream cheese and one slice of guava paste diagonally on each pastry square.
- Fold opposite corners of the pastry squares over the filling and seal the edges with whisked egg white.
- Arrange the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with remaining egg white and sprinkle with sparkling sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving.