Step 1: Get Ready for Deliciousness
Before embarking on this delightful culinary adventure, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients gathered and scaled to perfection. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, setting it aside for later use.
Step 2: Blend and Savor the Flavors
In a food processor or manual mixer, combine cream cheese, condensed milk, matcha powder, a pinch of salt, and white chocolate. Play with the matcha and white chocolate proportions to suit your taste preferences for flavor intensity and sweetness. Begin with smaller amounts, adjusting until you reach your desired taste. Mix the ingredients until they form a smooth and heavenly concoction. If needed, consider adding more white chocolate or condensed milk to achieve the perfect consistency. Scrape down the bowl, transfer the mixture to a piping bag, and set it aside for the moment of culinary glory.
Step 3: Puff Pastry Preparations
Unfold the puff pastry sheet and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. With a few skillful rolls, achieve a thinness of approximately 1/8 inch. Cut the sheet into eight roughly equal pieces, then transfer the first set onto the prepared baking sheet. For a touch of elegance and effective sealing, gently poke holes in the puff pastry squares with a fork. Lightly brush the corners of each square with egg wash, which acts as the glue for sealing the Pastelitos. Repeat the process with the second puff pastry sheet, setting it aside for later use.
Step 4: Pipe the Irresistible Filling
Snip the tip of your piping bag and skillfully pipe the creamy matcha mix onto the center of each pastry piece, leaving a perfect 1/2 inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Perfectly Topped
Now comes the moment of artistic assembly. Carefully place the second puff pastry piece on top of each filled square, pressing the edges firmly to create a seal. For an immaculate presentation, trim the edges to perfection. To elevate their appeal, lightly brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle a pinch of sugar, enhancing their golden allure.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Time to let the magic unfold in the oven! Bake these Matcha Pastelitos at 400°F (200°C), ensuring even browning by rotating them every 5 minutes. This skillful rotation ensures they puff up evenly without a trace of burnt spots. Bake until your Pastelitos proudly display a glorious golden hue.
Step 7: Divine Matcha White Chocolate Glaze
In a double boiler, melt the white chocolate with utmost care and skill. Once melted to perfection, sift in the matcha powder, blending them into a harmonious, smooth mixture. Allow the glaze to cool slightly, setting the stage for the grand finale.
Step 8: Unleash the Artistry
As your tempting Pastelitos are ready and resting on a wire rack, prepare to drizzle them with the heavenly matcha white chocolate glaze. Let your creativity flow as you create beautiful patterns, infusing them with the essence of matcha goodness.
Matcha Pastelitos, a delightful fusion of Latin favorite pastries with a captivating twist of Japanese essence by adding matcha. As you take the first bite, your taste buds will embark on a culinary journey like never before. The buttery, flaky puff pastry, a beloved Latin treat, now embraces the vibrant green allure of matcha, elevating its flavor profile to new heights. Experience the harmonious dance of the buttery goodness with the earthy notes of matcha, creating an unforgettable taste sensation that will leave you longing for more. Indulge in this perfect blend of two rich culinary traditions and share the joyous experience with your loved ones, for every delightful moment is meant to be cherished and celebrated together. Enjoy the goodness and savor the magic of this matcha-infused fusion that unites cultures in a single, blissful bite.
