Cream Cheese Pastries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Puerto Rican quesitos is loved for its simplicity and the delightful contrast in textures. The puff pastry becomes golden and crisp while the cream cheese filling stays creamy and luscious. It’s perfect for those who enjoy easy yet flavorful treats, and they come together in just 20 minutes. With just five ingredients, it’s an accessible recipe for anyone craving something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 puff pastry sheet

• ½ cup cream cheese

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¼ cup powdered sugar (a bit more to sprinkle on top)

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF).

2. Cut the puff pastry sheet into 4x4 inch squares.

3. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

4. Place 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center of each puff pastry square.

5. Fold one corner of the pastry over the filling, then fold the diagonal corner over to form a small triangle or packet shape.

6. Mix the egg with the granulated sugar, and brush it over the quesitos.

7. Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

8. After baking, sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve while warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9 pieces

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add fruit: For an extra burst of flavor, add a spoonful of guava paste or fruit preserves like strawberry or raspberry to the cream cheese filling.

• Coconut twist: Mix shredded coconut into the cream cheese filling for a tropical twist.

• Chocolate version: Add a small amount of melted chocolate to the filling for a decadent dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Puerto Rican quesitos are best enjoyed fresh, as the puff pastry maintains its crispiness when just out of the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to regain some of their crispiness. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pastry for this recipe?

Yes, you can use phyllo dough or even pie crust, but puff pastry gives the best flaky texture.

Can I freeze these quesitos?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked quesitos. Just assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of vanilla extract?

You can substitute vanilla extract with almond extract or coconut extract for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free puff pastry in place of regular puff pastry to make gluten-free quesitos.

Can I prepare these in advance?

You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, just assemble the quesitos and bake them fresh.

Can I make the filling without powdered sugar?

If you prefer a less sweet filling, you can use regular granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar, though it will affect the texture slightly.

How long do quesitos stay fresh?

Quesitos are best within 24 hours of baking. They can be kept for up to 2 days at room temperature, but they are at their best when fresh.

Is there any way to make quesitos healthier?

To make them healthier, you could try using reduced-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute. However, they are best enjoyed as an indulgence.

Can I make quesitos with store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for making quesitos. Just ensure it's thawed and ready for use.

Conclusion

Puerto Rican quesitos are the perfect combination of crispy, buttery pastry and a sweet, creamy filling. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, they’re ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack. Whether you’re familiar with Puerto Rican cuisine or trying it for the first time, these quesitos will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.