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5-Ingredient Guava Cheese Empanadas

An incredibly simple and delicious recipe for classic Guava Cheese Empanadas (Pastelillos de Guayaba y Queso). These crispy turnovers feature a molten filling of sweet guava paste and tangy cream cheese, all fried to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16 empanadas
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz guava paste 14 oz guava paste
  • 16 oz cream cheese 16 oz cream cheese
  • 12–16 empanada dough discs 12–16 empanada dough discs
  • 2 cups canola or vegetable oil 2 cups canola or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup confectioners sugar 1/4 cup confectioners sugar

Method
 

  1. 1. Prep the filling: Slice the cream cheese into 16 equal sized slices. Do the same with the guava paste.
  2. 2. Assemble the empanadas: Place a slice of cream cheese and a slice of guava paste into the center of each empanada disc. Fold the dough over to close the empanada. Seal with your hands or crimp with a fork.
  3. 3. Fry the empanadas in hot oil (350°F / 175°C) until golden brown all around. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. 4. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  5. 5. Serve with a sprinkle of confectioners sugar.

Notes

Ensure oil temperature is stable at 350°F (175°C) for a crispy, non-greasy result.
Do not overfill the empanadas to prevent them from bursting while frying.
Seal the edges very well using a fork for a tight crimp.