This golden, flaky treat, bursting with the tropical sweetness of guava and the creamy tang of cheese, is a favorite for good reason. Whether you’re searching for the perfect brunch item or an indulgent dessert, guava and cheese pastry offers a delightful solution. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from their fascinating origins to expert tips on perfecting your batch.
What Is Guava and Cheese Pastry?
Guava and cheese pastry is a fusion of buttery puff pastry, sweet guava paste, and creamy cheese. Originating from Latin American and Caribbean cultures, these pastries are often enjoyed as a breakfast treat or snack. The combination of guava’s tropical tanginess and cheese’s rich, creamy texture creates a perfect balance of flavors.
A Brief History of Guava and Cheese Pastry
The guava and cheese pastry’s origins trace back to Latin America and the Caribbean, where guava fruit is abundant. Known as Pastelitos de Guayaba y Queso in Cuba, this pastry became a staple in bakeries, showcasing the region’s vibrant culinary heritage. The combination of guava and cheese reflects the blend of indigenous ingredients with European culinary techniques brought by colonists. Today, it’s a beloved treat in many parts of the world, symbolizing the rich fusion of cultural influences.
Why We Love This Guava and Cheese Pastry
Flavor Harmony: The combination of tangy guava and creamy cheese creates a truly unique and irresistible flavor profile. The sweet and slightly tart guava balances perfectly with the rich, smooth cheese, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatility: These pastries aren’t limited to just one occasion. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a dessert after a meal, or as a midday snack with a cup of coffee, guava, and cheese pastries are versatile enough to suit any time of day.
Simple Yet Impressive: While the recipe is simple and easy to follow, the end result looks and tastes gourmet. The flaky, golden puff pastry and flavorful filling will impress any guest, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients For Guava and cheese pastry recipe
For the Pastry
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting your work surface)
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1 teaspoon water (to thin the egg wash)
- 1 box frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened for easy spreading)
- 1 package guava paste (cut into manageable slices)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for a finishing touch of sweetness and crunch)
These simple ingredients come together to create a pastry that feels anything but ordinary.
How to Make Guava and Cheese Pastry
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Roll Out the Dough
Dust your work surface with powdered sugar and roll out the puff pastry to prevent sticking. - Cut and Fill the Pastry
- Slice the puff pastry into 12 evenly sized squares.
- On six of the squares, place a slice of guava paste and a dollop of cream cheese in the center. Feel free to adjust the quantities to match your personal preference.
- Brush the edges with an egg wash to help seal the pastry.
- Top and Seal
- Take the remaining six squares and score them with a few light cuts.
- Place them on top of the filled squares and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Add Final Touches
- Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, crunchy finish.
- Bake to Perfection
Bake the pastries for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden. - Cool and Enjoy
Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. This ensures the filling sets and prevents burns.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pastry
Work Quickly: Puff pastry works best when it’s kept cold. If the dough warms up too much while you’re working with it, it may lose its ability to puff up properly in the oven. Keep the dough chilled and work in batches if needed to ensure maximum puffiness when baked.
Customize the Filling: The beauty of guava and cheese pastry is how flexible the filling can be. Feel free to adjust the ratio of guava to cheese based on your personal taste. If you prefer a sweeter pastry, add more guava paste; if you like a tangier bite, use more cream cheese or even goat cheese.
Try Different Cheeses: While cream cheese is a classic choice, experimenting with other cheeses can elevate the flavor profile. Try mascarpone for a rich and smooth filling, or swap in tangy goat cheese for an extra layer of complexity.
Uniform Cuts: For a professional-looking pastry, make sure you cut the dough into even squares using a sharp knife or pastry cutter. Uniform cuts ensure even baking and a consistent look, making your pastries as beautiful as they are delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Guava and Cheese Pastry
- Overloading the Filling: It might be tempting to add extra guava paste or cream cheese, but too much filling can cause the pastries to leak during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure a clean and professional finish.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash does more than just add shine; it helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color on the pastry. Skipping this step will result in pastries that look pale and less appetizing.
- Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly can lead to the filling oozing out while baking. Use a fork to press down the edges firmly, or brush the edges with a little water or egg wash before sealing to create a strong bond.
Vegan Adaptations for Guava and Cheese Pastry
Creating a vegan version of guava and cheese pastry is simple and just as delicious. Here’s how:
- Vegan Puff Pastry: Opt for a store-bought puff pastry labeled as vegan. Many brands use plant-based fats instead of butter but always double-check the ingredients list.
- Dairy-Free Filling: Swap out the traditional cream cheese for a vegan alternative. Popular options include almond-based or cashew-based cream cheese spreads. For a homemade touch, you can use a blended cashew cream seasoned with a hint of lemon juice for tanginess.
- Egg-Free Wash: Replace the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup. This creates a natural golden glaze on the pastry while keeping it fully plant-based.
Variations to Try for Guava and Cheese Pastry
Chocolate Guava Pastries: For a decadent upgrade, add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling alongside the guava paste and cream cheese. The rich chocolate melts into the filling, creating an irresistible combination of fruity, creamy, and chocolaty goodness.
Nutty Delight: Introduce a delightful crunch by sprinkling crushed pistachios, almonds, or even pecans inside the filling. The nuts not only add texture but also complement the sweetness of the guava and the creaminess of the cheese.
Mini Pastries: Turn your guava and cheese pastry into bite-sized delights by cutting the puff pastry into smaller squares. These mini pastries are ideal for parties, brunches, or any time you want a convenient, portable treat. They bake faster and are just as delicious!
Serving Suggestions for Guava and Cheese Pastry
- Pair with Coffee: Enjoy your pastries the traditional way by serving them with a cup of strong coffee or a frothy café con leche. The creamy and sweet flavors of the pastry complement the bold, rich notes of the coffee, creating a delightful pairing.
- Add Whipped Cream or Caramel Sauce: Serve the pastries warm and elevate their indulgence by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. These extras add a luxurious touch and make the pastries even more irresistible.
- Tropical Twist with Coconut: For a tropical flair, sprinkle shredded coconut over the pastries before serving. The coconut’s subtle sweetness and texture beautifully enhance the guava’s fruity flavor, transporting your taste buds to a sunny paradise.
How to Store Guava and Cheese Pastry
- At Room Temperature:
- You can store guava and cheese pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This works best if you plan to consume them quickly, as the puff pastry will retain some of its crispness during this time.
- In the Refrigerator:
- For longer storage, place the pastries in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to five days. Before serving, reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at a low temperature to restore their crisp, flaky texture. Refrain from using the microwave, as it may cause the pastry to become soggy.
- Freezing:
- If you want to prepare them in advance, freeze the unbaked pastries for the best results. Arrange them on a tray in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly in the oven without thawing, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This method ensures the pastries bake fresh, puffed, and golden every time.
FAQ About Guava and Cheese Pastry
What cheese goes well with guava paste?
Guava paste pairs beautifully with a range of cheeses, each offering a unique flavor profile. Cream cheese is the traditional choice, prized for its smooth texture and mild tang that complements the sweetness of guava. For a more sophisticated twist, mascarpone adds a rich creaminess, while goat cheese introduces a slightly tangy, earthy note that balances the guava’s fruity flavor. If you prefer a bolder contrast, sharp cheddar’s savory and slightly nutty taste enhances the pastry’s overall complexity, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory in every bite.
What is guava pastry made of?
Guava pastries are crafted from a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The foundation is flaky puff pastry dough, which provides the perfect light and crispy texture. The filling consists of guava paste, a sweet, fruity ingredient made from guava pulp and sugar, and a creamy cheese, typically cream cheese, which adds richness and balance. These three elements come together to create a treat that’s irresistibly sweet, creamy, and buttery.
How long are guava and cheese pastry good for?
Guava and cheese pastry are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the puff pastry is crisp and the filling is warm and gooey. To enjoy them later, Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, the pastries can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and reheat them to perfection.
Is guava paste the same as guava cheese?
Although they share similar ingredients, guava paste, and guava cheese are distinct products. Guava paste is soft, spreadable, and jelly-like, commonly used as a filling in pastries or as a topping. Guava cheese, on the other hand, is firmer, often cut into slices or cubes, and enjoyed as a candy or standalone snack. Both have a rich, concentrated guava flavor, but their texture and use differ significantly depending on the dish or occasion.
Bake Your Perfect Guava and Cheese Pastry Today!
With these simple steps, you’re ready to bake a batch of delicious guava and cheese pastry. Their flaky texture, sweet filling, and creamy cheese make them a delightful treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a homemade pastry that’s sure to impress!
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Guava and cheese pastry recipe
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting your work surface
- 1 egg whisked
- 1 teaspoon water to thin the egg wash
- 1 box frozen puff pastry thawed
- 8 oz. cream cheese softened for easy spreading
- 1 package guava paste cut into manageable slices
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for a finishing touch of sweetness and crunch
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough
- Dust your work surface with powdered sugar and roll out the puff pastry to prevent sticking.
Cut and Fill the Pastry
- Slice the puff pastry into 12 evenly sized squares.
- On six of the squares, place a slice of guava paste and a dollop of cream cheese in the center. Feel free to adjust the quantities to match your personal preference.
- Brush the edges with an egg wash to help seal the pastry.
Top and Seal
- Take the remaining six squares and score them with a few light cuts.
- Place them on top of the filled squares and press the edges with a fork to seal.
Add Final Touches
- Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, crunchy finish.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake the pastries for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden.
Cool and Enjoy
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. This ensures the filling sets and prevents burns.