Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering fusion of creamy cheese and vibrant mandarin oranges wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry! These Cuban-inspired pastelitos are not just a dessert, but a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the sunny streets of Havana. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends with its irresistible combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 10 pastelitos
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- On a clean, lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry. Roll it out gently with a rolling pin to smooth out creases and ensure an even thickness.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares, approximately 4x4 inches in size. You should be able to get about 10 squares from one package of puff pastry.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sugar. Use a hand mixer or a fork to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the drained mandarin orange segments into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to break the segments too much.
- Place a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese and mandarin mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
- Brush the edges of each pastry square with the beaten egg to help seal them.
- Fold the pastry over to create a triangle or rectangle shape, depending on your preference. Press the edges firmly to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Place the filled pastelitos on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops of the pastelitos with the remaining beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastelitos are puffed and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pastelitos from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Mandarin and Cheese Pastelitos!
Tips
- Make sure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold for the best rise and texture.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, even pastry squares to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don't overfill the pastelitos - a generous tablespoon of filling is perfect to prevent leaking.
- Crimp the edges well with a fork to create a tight seal and prevent filling from escaping.
- For an extra golden finish, use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash evenly.
- Let the pastelitos cool for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set.
- Serve these delightful treats warm for the most incredible taste and texture experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
