Save Discover the authentic taste of the Caribbean with these classic Guava Cake Bars. This recipe features a rich, buttery pastry that perfectly complements the thick, luscious layer of tropical guava paste. These Cuban-inspired bars strike a beautiful balance between a tender crumb and a sweet, vibrant filling, making them an ideal choice for a decadent dessert or a festive snack.
Save These bars are a staple of Cuban baking, known for their golden exterior and the soft, jam-like center that brings a burst of tropical flavor to every bite.
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
- 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
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3
- 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
- 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
- Spread half the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 6
- Arrange the guava paste strips in a single, even layer over the dough.
- Step 7
- Gently spread the remaining dough over the guava layer, using a spatula or damp fingers to cover completely.
- Step 8
- 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
- Allow to cool completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment and cut into bars.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Essential tools for this recipe include an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, a spatula, and parchment paper. Note that this recipe contains allergens: wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter, milk). Always check the labels on your guava paste for potential hidden allergens.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a tropical twist, add a hint of grated lime zest to the dough mixture. For a richer, more savory-sweet flavor, you can substitute a portion of the guava paste with cream cheese to mimic the classic Cuban "pastelito" combination.
Serviervorschläge
Each serving (1 bar) provides approximately 210 calories, 7 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein. Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their tender texture.
Save Whether served as a holiday treat or a simple afternoon snack, these Guava Cake Bars bring a delicious piece of Cuban tradition to your table. Enjoy the perfect contrast of buttery cake and luscious fruit in every square.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes Cuban guava bars unique?
The combination of buttery vanilla cake with thick guava paste creates the signature sweet-tart flavor profile. The fruit layer becomes jammy while baking, contrasting beautifully with the tender pastry.
- → Can I use fresh guava instead of paste?
Guava paste is traditional because it provides concentrated flavor and thick texture. Fresh guava would release too much liquid and alter the structure, though you could cook fresh guava into a thick paste first.
- → How should I store these bars?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The pastry stays tender and the guava layer remains perfectly sliceable. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- → Why is the dough divided into two portions?
Half the dough forms the bottom crust, while the remaining half covers the guava filling. This creates the classic sandwich structure with fruit sandwiched between tender cake layers.
- → Can I add cream cheese to the filling?
Absolutely. Layering thin strips of cream cheese alongside the guava paste adds tangy richness that balances the sweet fruit. The cream cheese melts slightly, creating a creamy texture throughout.
- → What's the best way to cut clean bars?
Let the pastry cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper to lift the entire slab onto a cutting board, then cut with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat squares.