Quesito

Quesitos 2

Quesito is a type of cheese-filled pastry that is popular in Puerto Rico. It is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine and is often enjoyed as a dessert or a breakfast item. The name "quesito" translates to "little cheese" in Spanish, reflecting its primary ingredient.

Ingredients and Preparation

Quesitos are made using a simple combination of ingredients. The primary components include:

• Puff pastry
• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract

To prepare quesitos, the puff pastry is rolled out and cut into squares. A dollop of sweetened cream cheese, often mixed with sugar and vanilla extract, is placed in the center of each square. The pastry is then folded over the filling, typically in a triangular or rectangular shape, and sealed. The tops are brushed with a sugar glaze before baking to give them a shiny, sweet finish.

Variations

While the traditional quesito is filled with sweetened cream cheese, there are several variations that include additional ingredients such as:

• Guava paste
• Dulce de leche
• Chocolate

These variations add different flavors and textures to the basic quesito, making them a versatile treat.

Cultural Significance

Quesitos hold a special place in Puerto Rican culture. They are commonly found in panaderías (bakeries) across the island and are a popular choice for breakfast or a sweet snack. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

See Also

• Puerto Rican cuisine
• Pastry
• Cream cheese
• Guava paste