_Sips coffee while typing_
Oh. My. Goodness. Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Latin afternoon delight – Pastelitos de Guayaba y Queso (Guava and Cheese Pastries). Trust me, once you try these heavenly little pockets of joy, you’ll be doing the salsa dance in your kitchen!
As a Latina who practically grew up with flour on her hands (thanks, abuela!), I can’t tell you how many times these pastries have saved my afternoon slump. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and they’re surprisingly easy to make – even if you’re not a kitchen goddess… yet! 😉
Here’s what you’ll need, mi amor:
– 1 package of puff pastry sheets (thawed)
– 8 oz guava paste
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– A sprinkle of powdered sugar (because why not?)
Now, let me walk you through this like I’m right there in your kitchen:
1. First things first – preheat that oven to 400°F (200°C). We want it hot and ready, just like a Miami summer!
1. Roll out your puff pastry (treat it gently, like that expensive face cream you splurged on).
1. Cut it into 3×3 inch squares. I usually get about 9 squares per sheet.
1. Here’s where the magic happens: place a small cube of guava paste and a dollop of cream cheese in the center of each square. Don’t go overboard – less is more, honey!
Speaking of magic, if you’re loving this recipe so far, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for more daily recipe inspiration! I’ve got a whole collection of Latin favorites that’ll make your taste buds dance! 💃
1. Fold each square diagonally to create triangles, and seal the edges with a fork. (Pro tip: if the pastry isn’t sticking, brush a tiny bit of water along the edges)
1. Brush with beaten egg – this gives them that gorgeous golden glow, like you after a day at the beach!
1. Pop these babies in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffy.
While they’re baking, let me tell you – the smell will drive you CRAZY! Your neighbors might “coincidentally” stop by to say hello. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Once they’re done, let them cool for about 5 minutes (I know it’s hard to wait, but those guava burns are no joke!), then dust with powdered sugar.
These pastelitos are perfect with your afternoon café con leche, and they’ll definitely earn you some serious kitchen cred. They’re crispy, creamy, sweet, and absolutely irresistible – just like yours truly! 😘
Y’all, I’d love to hear how these turned out for you! Drop a comment below and let me know if they made your afternoon as magical as they make mine. And don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more recipes that’ll spice up your life! I share new recipes daily, from traditional Latin favorites to modern twists that’ll make your abuela proud (or raise her eyebrows – either way, it’s entertaining!).
Until next time, keep cooking with love and a little sass! 💕
P.S. – If you managed to save any for later, store them in an airtight container. But let’s be real… they probably won’t last that long! 😉
