Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package of puff pastry dough (2 sheets)
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup guava paste, chopped into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Cut the dough into 3-inch squares using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chopped guava paste until well blended.
5. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese and guava mixture in the center of each pastry square.
6. Fold the pastry square in half to form a triangle, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
11. Dust the pastries with powdered sugar before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 400°F
Serving size:
- Makes 16 pastelitos
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 180
- Total fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of fruit paste instead of guava paste, such as apricot or strawberry.
- You can use any type of soft cheese instead of cream cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese and guava mixture for extra flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the filling for added crunch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the guava paste to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Don't overfill the pastries, or they may burst open during baking.
- Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the pastry squares to ensure clean edges.
Storage instructions:
- Store the pastelitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the pastelitos, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the pastelitos on a platter and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Garnishes:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs would make a great accompaniment to these pastelitos.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pastries are not sealing properly, try brushing the edges with a little water before pressing them together with a fork.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with the food to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Food history:
- Pastelitos de guayaba y queso are a popular pastry in Latin American cuisine, especially in Cuba and Puerto Rico.
Flavor profiles:
- These pastries are sweet and creamy, with a hint of tartness from the guava paste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these pastries as a sweet breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a dessert after dinner.
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Region: Cuban