Indulge your senses with the delightful taste of Quesitos Cream Cheese Pastries, a beloved Puerto Rican treat that promises to whisk you away to a tropical paradise with every bite! These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture that perfectly balances sweetness and richness, making them an irresistible addition to any dessert table or breakfast spread. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this simple yet delectable recipe will have your friends and family begging for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the world of Quesitos and discover how to create these heavenly pastries right in your own home!
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-blended, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Carefully unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 12 equal rectangular pieces.
- Spoon approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture onto one half of each pastry rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the pastry over the cream cheese filling, creating a triangular or rectangular shape. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges completely, preventing the filling from leaking during baking.
- Brush each pastry with beaten egg wash, which will help create a golden, shiny exterior when baked.
- Place the prepared pastries on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart to allow for even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness and presentation.
Tips
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold: To achieve the best flaky texture, ensure your puff pastry remains cold until you're ready to bake. If it warms up too much, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, make sure there are no lumps. A smooth filling will make for a more enjoyable pastry.
- Don't Overfill: When adding the cream cheese mixture to the pastry, be cautious not to overfill. Leaving a small border around the edges will help seal the pastries and prevent leaks during baking.
- Use Egg Wash Generously: Brushing the pastries with a beaten egg wash not only gives them a beautiful golden color but also adds a nice shine. Make sure to cover the entire surface for the best results.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pastries as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking them at the 12-minute mark. You want them to be puffed and golden brown for the perfect finish.
- Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: These pastries are delicious both warm and at room temperature. If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture.
- Get Creative with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Adding a hint of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract can elevate the flavor profile and give your Quesitos a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 36mg
