Puerto Rican Quesito Delight

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 15g (9g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 24g (10g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Add the granulated sugar and mix well. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 1-inch slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Brush the tops of the Quesitos with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the Quesitos cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cream Cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the sugar and vanilla extract. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for a hint of warmth and spice.
• Serve the Quesitos warm for a gooey and melty filling.
• If you prefer a sweeter pastry, sprinkle some additional granulated sugar on top of the Quesitos before baking.
• Experiment with different flavors of cream cheese, such as strawberry or chocolate, for a unique twist.
• Quesitos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve Quesitos as a delightful dessert or enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Quesitos on a platter, dust them with powdered sugar, and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an elegant presentation.