Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut out 12 circles with a 3-inch round cookie cutter.
7. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the coconut, pineapple, sugar, and cinnamon.
9. Divide the filling among the circles, placing it in the center of each.
10. Fold the edges of the circles over the filling, pressing to seal.
11. Brush the tops of the pastelitos with the vegetable oil.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 pastelitos
Nutritional Information: (per pastelito) Calories: 140; Fat: 7g; Carbohydrates: 17g; Protein: 2g; Sodium: 80mg
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: can be substituted with whole wheat flour
- Butter: can be substituted with vegan butter
- Vegetable oil: can be substituted with olive oil
- Pineapple: can be substituted with diced mango
- Sugar: can be substituted with honey or agave nectar
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the filling for a spicy kick
- Use a different type of fruit for the filling, such as diced apples or peaches
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the filling for a citrusy flavor
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture
- Work quickly when rolling out the dough to prevent it from becoming too warm
- Use a pastry brush to evenly spread the oil over the pastelitos
Storage Instructions:
- Store the pastelitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the pastelitos in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the pastelitos on a platter with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Place the pastelitos on a bed of fresh fruit for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the pastelitos with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Top the pastelitos with a dollop of coconut cream for a creamy finish.
Pairings:
- Serve the pastelitos with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Enjoy the pastelitos with a glass of cold milk or orange juice.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the pastelitos with a side of fresh fruit salad.
- Enjoy the pastelitos with a side of scrambled eggs or omelette.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is the right consistency.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash your hands before and after handling the ingredients.
Food History:
Pastelitos are a traditional Cuban pastry that are typically filled with guava and cheese. This version of the pastry is a modern twist on the classic, using coconut and pineapple for the filling.
Flavor Profiles:
This recipe has a sweet and tropical flavor, with notes of coconut, pineapple, and cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pastelitos as a snack or dessert.
- Enjoy the pastelitos for breakfast or brunch.
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