Desserts > Latin American Pastries > Cuban Turnovers

Cuban Guava and Cheese Turnovers Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup guava paste, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the cold water and stir until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until it is smooth.
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll out each piece into a 7-inch circle.
7. Place 2 tablespoons of guava paste and 1 tablespoon of cream cheese in the center of each circle.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the mixture over the guava paste and cream cheese.
9. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
10. Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. Brush the tops of the turnovers with a little melted butter.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 8 turnovers

Nutritional Information: Not available

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the guava paste, you can substitute any type of jam or preserves.
- For the cream cheese, you can substitute ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese.

Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the filling for added flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when adding to the dough.
- When rolling out the dough, use as little flour as possible to prevent the turnovers from becoming too dry.
- When folding the turnovers, make sure to press the edges together firmly to ensure they are sealed.

Storage Instructions:
The turnovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The turnovers can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
The turnovers can be served warm or at room temperature. They can be dusted with powdered sugar or served with a dollop of whipped cream.

Garnishes:
The turnovers can be garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
The turnovers can be served with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The turnovers can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more cold water.
- If the turnovers are browning too quickly, cover them with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the turnovers in an airtight container to prevent them from spoiling.

Food History:
Guava and cheese turnovers are a popular Cuban snack that have been enjoyed for generations.

Flavor Profiles:
The turnovers have a sweet and creamy flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions:
The turnovers can be served as a snack or dessert.

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Region: Cuban

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Creamy, Buttery