Criollo Pastries (pastelitos Criollos)

Criollo Pastries (Pastelitos Criollos) are a popular Venezuelan treat, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. These delicious pastries are filled with a sweet and savory combination of flavors, making them a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Criollo Pastries (pastelitos Criollos)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup queso blanco (white cheese), crumbled
  • 1/2 cup guava paste, cut into small cubes
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Sprinkle the water over the flour mixture and gently mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  4. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into 4-inch circles using a cookie cutter or a small plate as a guide.
  5. Place a spoonful of crumbled queso blanco and a few cubes of guava paste in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
  6. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with the beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
50 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Carbohydrates
20g
Protein
3g
Fat
7g

Supplies

Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry cutter or fork Rolling pin Cookie cutter or small plate

Tools

Oven Plastic wrap Pastry brush

Serving suggestions

Serve the Criollo Pastries warm as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Tips & tricks

For a variation, you can also fill the pastries with other traditional Venezuelan ingredients such as shredded beef, black beans, or plantains.

Cost

$10