Cuban Masa Real: Traditional Delight with Guava Filling.

 

Cuban Masa Real: Tradition and Flavor in Every Bite

Masa real is an iconic Cuban pastry that combines the softness and density of the dough with the characteristic sweetness of guava filling. Perfect for snacks, celebrations, or simply to enjoy a little piece of nostalgia at home.

🥚 Required Ingredients:

  • 1 stick of unsalted butter (1/4 pound)
  • 1 cup of white sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup of milk
  • 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose wheat flour
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Guava paste (similar to quince paste) or guava bar

 

 

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation:

Start by beating the butter and sugar in a bowl until you get a creamy mixture. Add three eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine both mixtures in a large bowl and add the vanilla and milk. Mix until you get a smooth dough—thick but workable. Divide the dough into two equal portions and set aside.

Cut the guava paste into strips about 1 cm thick and set them aside. Using a rolling pin, roll out the first portion of dough to about 1 cm thick and place it evenly in a greased and floured square pan measuring 18 x 18 inches.

Distribute the guava strips evenly over the dough. Roll out the second portion of dough and place it on top, covering the entire surface. Brush the top layer with beaten egg.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 to 50 minutes with heat from top and bottom (no fan), until the surface is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature before unmolding. Once cooled, cut into pieces of 1.5 x 3 inches, yielding approximately 72 portions.

ℹ️ Additional Information:

  • Yield: Approximately 72 masa reales
  • Total Time: 45 min (preparation) + 50 min (baking) + 25 min (cooling and cutting)
  • Category: Desserts
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Tip:

If you want an extra touch, you can brush a bit of sugar on top before baking for a shiny finish. You can also serve the masa reales on decorative trays or individually for gatherings and celebrations.


Did you try making them? Share your experience in the comments or tell us if you added your own twist to this traditional Cuban recipe. We’d love to hear from you!

🏷️ Tags: masa real, cuban masa real, cuban sweets, traditional desserts, cuban cuisine, easy recipes, creole pastries

For the Spanish recipe, visit: Masa Real Cubano: Tradición y Sabor en Cada Bocado.