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