Red guava shells cooked in syrup with cinnamon and lemon.

 

Guava Shells in Syrup: A Classic Cuban Dessert

Guava shells are one of the most beloved desserts in the Cuban recipe tradition. Their preparation combines fresh fruit, sugar, and natural spices to create a fragrant syrup that enhances the rich flavor of ripe guava.

🍯 Ingredients:

  • 5 pounds of large guavas (preferably red)
  • 2 ½ cups white sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Peel of one lemon
  • Enough water to cover

 

 

👩‍🍳 Step-by-step preparation:

Wash the guavas thoroughly and peel them carefully, trying to keep as much flesh as possible. Cut each guava in half and, using a small spoon, remove the seeds and the soft center pulp, leaving only the shells.

Place the guava shells in a large pot and cover them completely with water. Add the salt and bring to medium-high heat until it begins to boil. At that point, slightly reduce the heat and add the sugar, the lemon peel, and the cinnamon stick.

Continue cooking for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The process is complete when the fruit becomes tender and the syrup reaches a glossy, semi-thick consistency.

🔥 Ideal cooking point:

The syrup should coat the guava shells with a texture that is slightly dense but not too thick. Keep in mind that it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Remove from heat and allow to rest until it reaches room temperature. Then transfer the guava shells with their syrup to a glass or ceramic container and refrigerate. It is recommended to serve them well chilled.

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ℹ️ Additional information:

  • Serves: 8 portions
  • Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Practical tip:

If you prefer a lighter syrup, you can add a little hot water during the final cooking stage and adjust the consistency to your taste.

🍽️ Chef’s suggestion:

Serve the guava shells with thin slices of fresh white cheese or a generous portion of cream cheese to achieve the delicious sweet-and-salty contrast that will surely delight everyone at the table.

Would you like to try this recipe? Tell us whether you prepared it with red or white guavas and how you enjoyed it at home.

🏷️ Tags: guava shells, Cuban desserts, traditional sweets, homemade recipes, Cuban cuisine, guava in syrup

For the Spanish version, visit: Casquitos de Guayaba en Almíbar: Un Dulce Insustituible en la Mesa Cubana.