Guava Cake Bars

Rich, buttery pastry meets the vibrant tropical sweetness of guava in these classic Cuban cake bars. A staple in Cuban bakeries, these treats offer a delightful contrast between the crumbly, tender cake and the thick, luscious guava paste center. Ideal for dessert, snacks, or a festive treat, they capture the essence of traditional Caribbean baking.

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Each serving of these delicious bars contains approximately 210 calories, 7 grams of total fat, 34 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. This recipe yields 16 bars, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients

• Dough
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) whole milk
• Filling
• 12 oz (340 g) guava paste, sliced into thin strips

Instructions

Step 1: Prep

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Cream Butter

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Bottom Layer

Spread half the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 6: Guava Layer

Arrange the guava paste strips in a single, even layer over the dough.

Step 7: Top Layer

Gently spread the remaining dough over the guava layer, using a spatula or damp fingers to cover completely.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 38–42 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the pastry (not the guava) comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Allow to cool completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment and cut into bars.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best results, ensure you use the required tools: an 8x8-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, a spatula, parchment paper, a sharp knife, and an electric mixer or whisk. Letting the bars cool completely is crucial; if you cut them while warm, the guava paste may be too soft to hold its shape.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a tropical twist, add a hint of grated lime zest to the dough. You can also substitute part of the guava paste with cream cheese for a richer flavor, or adjust the thickness of the guava strips depending on your preference for sweetness.

Serviervorschläge

These Guava Cake Bars are best served at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of Cuban coffee or a cold glass of milk for a balanced afternoon treat.

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Please note that this recipe contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter and milk). Always check the labels on your guava paste to ensure there are no hidden allergens. Enjoy these authentic Cuban treats as a perfect end to any meal.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ What makes these guava cake bars authentic Cuban?

These bars capture the essence of traditional Cuban pastelitos by combining the classic pairing of guava paste with tender pastry. The buttery vanilla dough and thick guava filling reflect the flavors found in Cuban bakeries throughout Miami and Havana.

→ Can I use fresh guava instead of paste?

Guava paste is recommended because it provides the concentrated sweetness and thick, spreadable consistency needed for layering. Fresh guava would release too much moisture and alter the texture significantly.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The pastry remains tender and the guava layer stays perfectly spreadable. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though bringing them to room temperature before serving is best.

→ Why is my dough difficult to spread over the guava?

If the dough sticks, dampen your fingers or spatula with water to help glide it across the guava layer. Alternatively, press the dough into a rough rectangle on parchment paper, then flip it over the filling for easier handling.

→ Can I add cream cheese to the filling?

Absolutely. Many Cuban bakers layer thin strips of cream cheese alongside the guava paste for a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness. Simply soften the cream cheese and spread it in small dollops between the guava strips.

→ What's the best way to cut clean bars?

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For precise squares, you can chill the cooled pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm the layers before slicing.