How to Make Homemade Guava-Filled Cookies: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious cookie recipe that will impress everyone, these homemade cookies with guava paste are the perfect choice. Combining the sweet, buttery goodness of classic cookies with the tropical flavor of guava paste, this recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion, as a snack, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick homemade dessert. Let’s dive into the recipe, explore some helpful tips, and answer common questions to make your cookie-baking experience a breeze.
Ingredients for Homemade Guava Cookies
Here’s everything you need to make these simple yet delicious guava-filled cookies:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour (wheat flour)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 cup of margarine
- Guava paste, cut into small cubes for the filling
These four ingredients are the backbone of this recipe. The dough is buttery and slightly sweet, while the guava paste adds a tangy, fruity surprise in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Guava-Filled Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Begin by combining the margarine and sugar in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Using a spoon or mixer, stir the ingredients until they’re well combined. The margarine and sugar should create a smooth, creamy mixture that’s light in texture.
Once combined, gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir continuously until the flour is fully incorporated, and a smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky, allowing you to handle it easily with your hands.
Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit of margarine to moisten it.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to shape your cookies. Take small portions of the dough, roughly the size of a tablespoon, and roll them into balls with your hands. Place each dough ball onto a baking sheet. You don’t need to grease the baking sheet, as the margarine in the dough will prevent sticking.
After shaping the cookies, use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each one. This will serve as a perfect spot for the guava filling.
Step 3: Add the Guava Filling
Take small cubes of guava paste and place one in the center of each cookie, pressing down gently. The guava will soften and melt slightly during baking, creating a sweet and fruity center that pairs perfectly with the buttery cookie dough.
Tip: You can adjust the amount of guava paste depending on your taste. If you like a stronger guava flavor, feel free to add slightly larger pieces to each cookie.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbake. You’ll know they’re ready when the bottoms are a beautiful golden-brown color.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Guava Cookies
These tips will help you create the best guava-filled cookies every time:
1. Choosing the Right Guava Paste
Guava paste can be found in most grocery stores, especially in the Latin American foods section. It has a thick, jelly-like consistency and a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the buttery dough beautifully. If you can’t find guava paste, you can substitute it with another fruit jam, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
2. Adjusting the Dough Consistency
If you find the dough too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to shape into cookies.
3. Add a Flavor Twist
While this recipe is simple and delicious as is, you can elevate the flavors by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. These flavors pair well with the sweetness of the guava paste.
4. Make It Gluten-Free
If you prefer a gluten-free version of these cookies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend you use is suitable for baking.
Recipe Variations
Want to get creative with your guava-filled cookies? Here are a few variations to try:
1. Coconut-Guava Cookies
For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the cookie dough before baking. The coconut adds a lovely texture and enhances the tropical flavor of the guava.
2. Cheese and Guava Combo
If you’re a fan of the classic Latin American pairing of cheese and guava, add a small piece of cream cheese or queso blanco along with the guava paste in the center of each cookie. The creamy, salty cheese balances the sweetness of the guava perfectly.
3. Citrus-Infused Dough
Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the guava filling.
4. Guava and Nut Cookies
Mix chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the cookie dough for added crunch and richness.
FAQs for Homemade Guava-Filled Cookies
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with butter if you prefer. However, butter may give the cookies a slightly richer flavor and crispier texture. Keep in mind that margarine often has a higher water content, so the dough may need a bit more flour if you switch to butter.
Can I use other fillings instead of guava paste?
Absolutely! While guava paste is traditional, you can fill these cookies with other fruit preserves, like strawberry, apricot, or raspberry jam. For a different twist, you can also use Nutella or a chocolate filling.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
How long will the cookies stay fresh?
These cookies will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Simply shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Do I need to refrigerate the cookies after baking?
No, these cookies do not need to be refrigerated after baking. However, if you live in a hot or humid climate, storing them in the refrigerator can help them last longer.
Final Thoughts
These homemade guava-filled cookies are the perfect blend of buttery, sweet, and tangy flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. The addition of guava paste gives them a unique flavor that stands out, making them perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a special treat with family.
Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with one of the variations, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!