Pastel is a traditional and very popular dish, especially in Brazil, where it is eaten as a snack or quick meal.
This snack is an irresistible treat, perfect for any time of day. Especially loved in Brazil, these pastries are known for their crispy, flaky crust and delicious fillings that can range from caramel to fruit and chocolate. Pastels are traditionally fried in hot oil, although they can also be baked.
This article offers a variety of simple but delicious pastry recipes to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of the classic dulce de leche filling or prefer something more adventurous like chocolate and strawberry, these sweet treats are easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. Discover these recipes and bring a touch of sweetness to your next gathering or brunch!
1. Dulce de Leche Pastries
Ingredients:
- Pastry dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Dulce de leche (to taste)
- Oil for frying
- Sugar and cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
If using store-bought dough, thaw if necessary.
For homemade dough, prepare as you would for savory pastries but omit the salt. - Fill the Pastries:
Place a teaspoon of dulce de leche in the center of each dough square.
Fold the dough into a triangle or half-moon, pressing the edges firmly to seal. - Fry the Pastries:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot.
Fry the pastries until golden and crispy. - Finish:
Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon while still hot, if desired.
2. Chocolate and Banana Pastries
Ingredients:
- Pastry dough
- 1 ripe banana (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- Oil for frying
- Sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill the Pastries:
Place a teaspoon of chocolate (or hazelnut spread) in the center of each dough square.
Add a few banana slices on top of the chocolate. - Seal the Pastries:
Fold the dough into a triangle or half-moon and press the edges with a fork to seal. - Fry the Pastries:
Heat oil in a deep skillet. Fry the pastries until golden and crispy. - Finish:
Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
3. Guava and Cheese Pastries
Ingredients:
- Pastry dough
- 100g guava paste
- 100g Minas cheese (or other mild cheese)
- Oil for frying
- Sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
Cut the guava paste and cheese into small cubes and mix together. - Assemble the Pastries:
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough square.
Fold the dough and seal the edges with a fork. - Fry the Pastries:
Heat oil and fry the pastries until golden and crispy. - Finish:
After frying, drain on paper towels and sprinkle with sugar for extra sweetness.
4. Chocolate and Strawberry Pastries
Ingredients:
- Pastry dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 100g milk or dark chocolate
- 5-6 fresh strawberries (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (if strawberries are slightly tart)
- Oil for frying
- Sugar and cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
Rinse the strawberries, remove leaves, and slice thinly.
If the strawberries are tart, sprinkle with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. - Assemble the Pastries:
Lay out the dough in squares or circles.
Add a teaspoon of melted chocolate in the center, followed by a few strawberry slices.
Avoid overfilling to prevent bursting while frying.
Fold the dough into a triangle or half-moon, sealing the edges with a fork. - Fry the Pastries:
Heat oil to 350°F (180°C) in a pan. Fry the pastries, a few at a time, until golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. - Finish:
If desired, sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Alternative filling: Use hazelnut spread (like Nutella) for a creamier filling.
- Frozen strawberries: If using frozen strawberries, drain excess water to keep the pastry dough dry.
- Baked version: For a healthier option, brush pastries with melted butter or oil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden.
These sweet pastry options are delicious, quick, and perfect for any occasion! Enjoy making and sharing them with family and friends!
