Why You’ll Love Puerto Rican Quesitos Recipe
Quesitos are everything you want in a quick homemade pastry — buttery, flaky, creamy, and slightly sweet. The puff pastry gives you an airy crunch, while the cream cheese center melts in your mouth. They’re easy to prepare with store-bought dough, making them perfect for both last-minute treats and planned desserts. A touch of honey or syrup glaze adds that bakery-style sheen and flavor you’ll love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package of puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
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2 tbsp honey or corn syrup (for glaze, optional)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut each into 4–6 equal rectangles.
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Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each rectangle.
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Fold one side of the pastry over the filling, then the other side, overlapping slightly. Press gently to seal.
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In a small bowl, beat the egg with water to create the egg wash. Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash.
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Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
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Optional: While still warm, brush the tops with honey or corn syrup for a glossy finish.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
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Yield: 8–12 quesitos
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Guava and Cream Cheese: Add a strip of guava paste alongside the cream cheese for the classic Puerto Rican combination.
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Flavored Cream Cheese: Use strawberry or honey-flavored cream cheese for a fun twist.
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Sugar-Coated Tops: Instead of honey, sprinkle coarse sugar before baking for a crunchy finish.
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Mini Quesitos: Cut puff pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized treats — perfect for parties.
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Spiced Cream Cheese: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced note.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover quesitos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
What does “quesito” mean?
“Quesito” means “little cheese” in Spanish. In Puerto Rico, it refers to a cream cheese–filled pastry.
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, but store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe much faster and still delicious.
Is it necessary to glaze the quesitos?
No, but glazing adds a beautiful shine and extra sweetness. It’s optional but highly recommended.
Can I freeze quesitos?
They’re best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze unbaked filled pastries and bake from frozen — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes. Prepare and fill the pastries, store in the fridge for a few hours, then bake when ready.
Why is my pastry not puffing properly?
Ensure your puff pastry is thawed but still cold. Over-warmed dough won’t rise as well in the oven.
What else can I use instead of cream cheese?
Try ricotta sweetened with sugar and vanilla, or mascarpone for a richer taste.
Can I make these with less sugar?
Yes, reduce the sugar in the filling slightly if you prefer a less sweet pastry.
Are quesitos served hot or cold?
They’re traditionally served warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with quesitos?
They pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk.
Conclusion
Puerto Rican Quesitos are a simple yet elegant dessert that brings bakery-quality flavor to your kitchen. With their crisp, golden pastry and creamy, lightly sweetened center, they make a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you keep them classic or add a tropical twist with guava, these pastries are sure to impress every time.
