Experience the delightful flavors of Cuba with these scrumptious Pastelitos de Fruta. These fruit-filled pastries are a beloved Cuban treat, featuring a flaky pastry crust enveloping a sweet and tangy fruit filling. Enjoy these pastelitos as a delightful snack or dessert that captures the essence of Cuban cuisine.

PASTELITOS DE FRUTA

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE



GALLERY                                                                                                                                                                  

INGREDIENTS                                                                                                                                                       

4 Persons

For the Pastry Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup cold water
For the Fruit Filling:
  • 2 cups diced mixed fruits (guava, pineapple, mango, etc.)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp water

INSTRUCTIONS                                                                                                                                                     

For the Pastry Dough:

1) In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt.

2) Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3) Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.

4) Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Fruit Filling:

1) In a saucepan, combine the diced mixed fruits, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.

2) Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruits release their juices and the mixture thickens.

3) In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the fruit mixture and continue cooking until the filling is thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assembling the Pastelitos:

1) Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2) Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

3) Cut the dough into circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass. Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling onto one half of each circle.

4) Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges.

5) Place the pastelitos on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

6) Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastelitos are golden brown and flaky.

7) Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Optional: Dust the pastelitos with powdered sugar before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)                                                                                       

Serving Size: 1 pastelito

Calories: 180 kcal

Carbohydrates: 26g

Sugar: 12g

Protein: 2g

Fat: 7g

Sodium: 60mg

DURATION : 2 hours (including chilling and baking time)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

TRICK & TIP                                                                                                                                                           

Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings, such as guava, pineapple, mango, or even guava and cream cheese. Serve the pastelitos warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.