Traditional Cuban guava pie with smooth filling and a golden lattice crust.

 

Cuban-Style Guava Pie: Elegant Presentation and Delicious Flavor

The guava pie is one of those desserts that steals sighs the moment it comes out of the oven. Its crisp, firm crust combined with the fragrant melted guava filling creates a classic pairing that never fails. Perfect for gatherings, family snacks, or simply enjoying an authentic Cuban sweet.

🥄 Ingredients

  • For the crust:
    • 450 grams all-purpose flour (3 ½ cups)
    • 240 grams unsalted butter (16 tablespoons)
    • 180 grams white sugar (1 cup)
    • 2 eggs
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Vegetable oil (to grease the pan)
  • For the filling:
    • 500 grams guava paste (1 bar)
    • 3 tablespoons water
    • 1 egg (for brushing)
    • Sugar (for sprinkling)

 

 

🍪 Preparing the crust

Start by sifting the flour through a fine strainer and set it aside. In a large bowl, mix the butter and sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next, then add the vanilla to enhance the aroma and flavor.

🥣 Forming the dough

Gradually add the flour, reserving a few tablespoons for later. Add the salt and continue mixing until a uniform dough forms. Once it begins to come together, knead lightly with floured hands until you achieve a smooth, manageable texture. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap dusted with flour and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

🍈 Preparing the filling

Cut the guava paste into small pieces, place it in a bowl, add the water, and microwave for a few minutes until melted and smooth — perfect for spreading effortlessly.

🥧 Assembling the pie

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 4 equal parts. Take three parts, bring them together again, and roll them out with a rolling pin until about ¼ inch thick. Grease and flour a deep pie dish, then place the dough inside, pressing gently against the bottom and sides. Trim the excess dough and set it aside.

Pour in the guava filling and spread it evenly. Place the dish back in the refrigerator while preparing the lattice top.

🪜 Decorative lattice

Roll out the reserved dough, sprinkle with flour, and cut strips of equal width. Chill them for a few minutes, then arrange them over the pie in a crisscross pattern, pressing lightly along the edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar for a glossy finish. Protect the edge of the crust by wrapping a thick strip of aluminum foil around the top of the dish.

🔥 Perfect baking

Preheat the oven to 419°F (215°C) with heat on top and bottom. Bake for 20 minutes. Then lower the temperature to 356°F (180°C) and continue baking for 30 more minutes. Remove the foil barrier from the edge and bake for an additional 5 minutes until evenly golden. Allow to cool completely before unmolding.

ℹ️ Useful info

  • Servings: 8
  • Prep time: 30 minutes
  • Resting time: 2 hours
  • Total time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Final tip

For an irresistible touch, serve this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it with a hot coffee.

Do you like your pie with a sweet, intense filling like this, or do you prefer a milder version? Try both and find your favorite!

🏷️ Tags: guava pie, Cuban desserts, traditional recipes, Cuban baking

For the Spanish version, visit: Pie de Guayaba Tradicional Cubano.