Pin Experience the irresistible fusion of flavors with these Guava Cheese Pastries. Flaky, golden puff pastry envelopes a luscious center of sweet guava paste and creamy melted cheese, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Whether served as a morning treat or a decadent dessert, these pastries are a celebration of Latin American flavors.
Pin These pastries are surprisingly easy to assemble, making them a go-to option for brunch or an afternoon snack. The vibrant red guava paste melts into a thick jam, while the cheese adds a smooth, slightly tangy counterpoint that cuts through the sweetness.
Ingredients
- Pastry
- 1 sheet (about 250 g) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Filling
- 150 g guava paste, cut into 8 equal pieces
- 100 g cream cheese, cut into 8 equal pieces (or use mozzarella for a stretchier texture)
- Optional Garnish
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. Cut into 8 equal rectangles.
- Step 3
- Place a piece of guava paste and a piece of cream cheese (or mozzarella) in the center of each rectangle.
- Step 4
- Fold each rectangle over the filling to form a square or triangle. Press edges with a fork to seal.
- Step 5
- Transfer pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Step 6
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Step 7
- Cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling before folding the pastry. Ensure your puff pastry is chilled when you start working with it to ensure the maximum number of flaky layers.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a more sophisticated flavor profile, swap the cream cheese for goat cheese for a tangier variation. For those who love a cheese pull, mozzarella is an excellent alternative that complements the guava beautifully.
Serviervorschläge
These pastries are delicious served warm as a dessert or snack with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a wonderful addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
Pin Enjoy these warm, tropical delights that bring a taste of fusion cuisine right to your kitchen. With their crispy exterior and molten center, they are sure to become a household favorite.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese works best?
Cream cheese provides a rich, smooth texture that complements the sweet guava paste perfectly. For a stretchier, more traditional Latin American experience, mozzarella works wonderfully and creates those classic cheese pulls when bitten into.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pastries and freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure you seal the edges firmly with a fork, pressing down completely around the perimeter. Don't overfill—stick to the recommended portions of guava and cheese. Chill the assembled pastries for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
- → What's the best way to serve these?
These are exceptional served warm, ideally within 10-15 minutes of baking. Pair with coffee or tea for breakfast, or enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.
- → Can I use fresh guava instead of paste?
Fresh guava contains too much water for pastries and would make the crust soggy. Guava paste (also known as goiabada) has a concentrated, thick consistency that holds its shape during baking and provides intense flavor.
- → Are there variations for dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free needs, use a high-quality gluten-free puff pastry. Vegan alternatives include dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based egg wash made from maple syrup and plant milk. The flavor profile remains delicious.