Puerto Rican Quesitos (Puff Pastries with Cream Cheese)

Short Description

Puerto Rican quesitos are delightful puff pastries filled with sweetened cream cheese, offering a perfect balance of crisp, flaky layers and a rich, creamy interior. These pastries are a staple in Puerto Rican bakeries and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Their slightly caramelized, glossy exterior makes them as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With store-bought puff pastry, these pastries come together quickly and require minimal effort.
• Deliciously Sweet & Creamy – The combination of light, crispy pastry and creamy, slightly tangy sweetened cheese is irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat, quesitos are always a great choice.
• Authentic Puerto Rican Flavor – This recipe captures the essence of traditional Puerto Rican bakeries in every bite.
• Customizable – You can add different fillings like guava or fruit preserves to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheets
• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Honey or simple syrup
• Egg (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling – In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry – Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on the desired size of your quesitos.
3. Fill the Pastries – Place a spoonful of the sweetened cream cheese mixture onto each puff pastry piece.
4. Fold and Seal – Fold the pastry over the filling, creating a cigar-like roll or a triangle. Press the edges gently to seal.
5. Apply Egg Wash – Beat an egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a golden-brown finish.
6. Bake – Place the pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Glaze and Serve – While still warm, brush the quesitos with honey or simple syrup for a glossy finish. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.

Variations

• Guava Quesitos – Add a slice of guava paste along with the cream cheese for a classic Puerto Rican twist.
• Chocolate-Filled – Add a small piece of chocolate or Nutella inside for a decadent variation.
• Coconut Quesitos – Sprinkle shredded coconut into the cream cheese filling for a tropical flavor.
• Fruit Preserves – Swap out the guava for other fruit jams like strawberry or mango for different flavor combinations.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 quesitos

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quesitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

What does “quesito” mean?

“Quesito” means “little cheese” in Spanish, referring to the cream cheese filling inside the pastry.

Can I make quesitos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them before baking. When ready, bake them fresh for the best results.

Do I have to use store-bought puff pastry?

No, you can make homemade puff pastry, but store-bought versions save time and work just as well.

Can I freeze quesitos?

Yes, freeze unbaked quesitos on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

How can I make quesitos healthier?

Use a lower-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar in the filling to cut down on calories.

Why do my quesitos open while baking?

Ensure you seal the edges well and place them seam-side down to prevent them from opening.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

While phyllo dough creates a different texture, it can be used, but it requires layering with butter for the best results.

What’s the best way to serve quesitos?

They are best served warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes! Flavored cream cheeses like strawberry or honey nut can add extra dimension to the filling.

Are quesitos overly sweet?

No, they have a balanced sweetness. You can adjust the sugar or honey glaze to your preference.

Conclusion

Puerto Rican quesitos are a simple yet delicious treat that embodies the flavors of the island’s bakeries. With a crispy, golden pastry shell and a luscious, sweet cream cheese filling, they make an excellent breakfast, snack, or dessert. Try this easy recipe at home and experience a taste of Puerto Rico with every bite!

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