Guava Cake Bars (Print View)

Buttery pastry layered with sweet guava paste, these classic Cuban bars balance fruit and tender cake perfectly.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1½ teaspoons baking powder
03 - ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
04 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - ¾ cup granulated sugar
06 - 3 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - ⅓ cup whole milk

→ Filling

09 - 12 ounces guava paste, sliced into thin strips

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until combined.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
06 - Spread half the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
07 - Arrange guava paste strips in a single, even layer over the base dough.
08 - Gently spread remaining dough over the guava layer, using a spatula or damp fingers to cover completely.
09 - Bake for 38 to 42 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the pastry comes out clean.
10 - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan. Lift out using parchment overhang and cut into 16 equal bars.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • A perfect harmony of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pastry and sweet guava fruit.
  • Simple preparation using staple ingredients and authentic guava paste.
  • A versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with coffee or as a standout on a dessert platter.
02 -
  • Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, well-combined batter.
  • Use a sharp knife to slice the guava paste into thin, even strips for a uniform filling layer.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before lifting it out; this ensures the guava layer is set and results in clean, professional-looking cuts.
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