Desserts > Baked Goods > Puerto Rican Quesitos

Quesito with Bananas and Cream Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease the baking pan with butter and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll out to a 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut the dough into circles using a biscuit cutter or a glass.
7. Place the circles in the prepared baking pan.
8. Brush the tops of the circles with the melted butter and honey.
9. Top each circle with a few slices of banana.
10. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
11. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of the bananas.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
13. Let cool before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 6g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour
- Butter: coconut oil, vegetable oil, or olive oil
- Evaporated milk: almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk
- Cream cheese: Greek yogurt, ricotta cheese, or cottage cheese
- Honey: maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar

Variations:
- Add other fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Substitute the cream cheese with peanut butter or Nutella
- Top with chopped nuts or shredded coconut

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing.
- For a crispier crust, brush the tops of the circles with an egg wash before baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a platter with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Shredded coconut
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate chips

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
- Granola

Troubleshooting Advice:
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing.
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more evaporated milk.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Food History:
Quesitos are a traditional Puerto Rican pastry that is made with a sweet dough and filled with cream cheese and fruit. They are usually served as a breakfast or dessert item.

Flavor Profiles:
This quesito has a sweet and creamy flavor with hints of cinnamon and banana.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a breakfast or dessert item.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Tangy, Fruity