Guava and Cheese Pastries Recipe for a Sweet Treat

If you’re craving a delicious dose of sweetness with a hint of savory, this guava and cheese pastries recipe for a sweet treat is just what you need. Bursting with tropical flavors, these pastries offer a unique blend of creamy cheese and sweet guava paste that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for breakfasts or dessert, these pastries are sure to become a family favorite.
Growing up, my grandmother would always make pastries filled with various sweet and savory ingredients. The most cherished in our family was her famous guava and cheese pastries. Her kitchen would fill with the divine aroma of baked pastry dough mingling with exotic guava. It was a treat we eagerly anticipated during our family gatherings, often sparking lively debates over who managed to snag the last piece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the sweet, floral notes of guava with the creamy, salty flavor of cheese, creating a perfectly balanced treat. It’s an easy-to-make pastry that looks impressive and can be prepped in advance. Plus, its ingredients are versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences, making it a great addition to any menu.
Ingredients Notes
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors in your pastries. Here are some tips and possible substitutions:
- Guava Paste: Look for guava paste in the Latin aisle of your grocery store or at a specialty market. As a substitute, you can use apricot or fig jam.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese works best for a rich, creamy texture. Neufchatel cheese can be used for a lighter option.
- Puff Pastry Sheets: Find pre-made puff pastry in your freezer aisle. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 6 squares. Make a small cut at each corner of the squares to allow the pastry to puff up beautifully while baking.
Step 3
Place a small slice of guava paste in the center of each pastry square. Add a dollop of cream cheese on top of the guava paste. Overlap the pastry corners over the filling to form a pinwheel shape.
Step 4
Brush the pastry with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water) for a glossy finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy.
Step 5
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Storage Options
To store leftover pastries, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pastries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the cheese before baking. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try vegan cream cheese as a substitute. Experiment with different fruit pastes, like mango or quince, for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought? Absolutely! While store-bought puff pastry is convenient and time-saving, homemade puff pastry can yield even more delicious results if you’re willing to put in the extra effort.
What is the best way to prevent the pastry from getting soggy? Make sure the puff pastry and the oven are preheated properly before baking. Additionally, reducing the moisture in the filling by controlling the amount of cheese and guava paste will also help maintain a crispy pastry.
Can I prepare these pastries in advance? Yes, you can assemble the pastries, then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer in a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Guava and Cheese Pastries Recipe for a Sweet Treat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.5 cup cold butter cubed
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup guava paste sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add cream cheese and knead until a dough forms. Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
- Cut the dough into squares and place a slice of guava paste in the center of each square.
- Fold the dough over the guava to form a triangle or rectangle, sealing the edges with a fork.
- Place pastries on a baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.