Cuban Guava Pastelitos Recipe

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet.

Roll out the puff pastry dough into a sheet. Repeat with a second piece of dough. Do this step respectively for about every 9 pastries.

Cut each dough sheet into roughly nine even rectangles.

Place 9 of the sliced pastry pieces and set aside another set of 9. Add about 1/9 cup guava jam to each piece.

Seal pastries by brushing edges with water and top each with one of the pastry pieces set aside.

Press slightly along the edges of the dough or optionally press lightly with a fork.

Wisk an egg and brush pastries with egg wash.

Set pastries to chill for 10–15 minutes.

Cut a slit on top for steam to escape and bake for 30–35 minutes.

Combine boiling water and sugar to make glaze, then let cool.

Brush glaze onto warm pastelitos and optionally sprinkle additional sugar on still-wet pastries.

The History of Pastelitos

What is a pastelito? A pastelito is a small pastry typically made with puff pastry and filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients. The most iconic version features guava paste (like in this recipe) and oftentimes that is paired with cream cheese, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Other common fillings include pineapple, coconut, and beef picadillo.
Why Guava? Famously originating in Cuba and having variations all throughout carribean countries, it's only natural for Guava to be the ideal filling for pastelitos. Guava is native to Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America and grows in abundance on the island of Cuba.
How did the Cuban pastelito originate? The history of the Cuban pastelito has several competing theories. One suggests that enslaved workers in Cuba’s sugar mills created the first versions, taking advantage of abundant wild guava and limited ingredients. Another points to Cuban household kitchens in the 19th century, where ladies of the house prepared small pastries as appetizers and desserts.
What is their significance to Cuban culture? Pastelitos de guayaba are not just pastries; they symbolize cultural identity for countless Latin Americans. In Cuban culture, these pastries grace celebrations, family gatherings, and even breakfast tables. Their widespread availability in bakeries and homes reflects the shared history and traditions of the Cuban people.