Air fryer quesitos

Air fryer quesitos are a delightful Puerto Rican pastry featuring a creamy cream cheese filling encased in flaky puff pastry. This quick air fryer method yields golden, crunchy treats perfect for a sweet snack or breakfast pairing with coffee.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 cup cream cheese
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 sheets puff pastry
1 egg
Air fryer quesitos

Quesitos are a beloved Puerto Rican pastry that combines the creamy goodness of cream cheese with the flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry. Traditionally baked in an oven, this air fryer version offers a quicker and equally delicious alternative. If you're looking to make a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or serves as a sweet snack, these air fryer quesitos are a must-try!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into equal-sized squares, aiming for about 8 squares per sheet.
3. Fill the Pastry Squares:
- Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
4. Shape the Quesitos:
- Fold each square over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges with a fork to seal them tightly.
5. Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the top of each quesito with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish when cooked.
6. Air Fry the Quesitos:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Place the quesitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry the quesitos for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Let the quesitos cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.

In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy warm, golden, and flaky quesitos right out of your air fryer. This recipe captures all the traditional flavors and textures you love, but with the added convenience of faster cooking. Whether you're making them for a family breakfast, a snack to share with friends, or just a treat for yourself, these air fryer quesitos are sure to impress. Enjoy your delightful pastry creation!

Air fryer quesitos FAQ:

What is the ideal cooking time for air fryer quesitos?

Air fry the quesitos for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they are golden brown and puffed up.

How do I know when the quesitos are done?

Quesitos are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. A visual inspection is key, as air fryers may vary in performance.

Can I use a different filling for quesitos?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese filling with other options such as ricotta, fruit preserves, or chocolate, but ensure any substitution is properly flavored.

What is the best way to store leftover quesitos?

Store leftover quesitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness.

Can I freeze quesitos before cooking them?

Yes, you can freeze assembled and unbaked quesitos. Place them in a single layer in the freezer for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air frying time.

Tips:

- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother filling.

- Don't overfill the puff pastry to prevent it from bursting open while cooking.

- Seal the edges of the puff pastry well to keep the filling from leaking out during the air frying process.

- Brush the egg wash evenly over the pastry to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.

- For an extra touch of sweetness, you can sprinkle a little sugar on the quesitos before air frying them.

Nutrition per serving

22 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 2.78g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 0.34g
Sugar 0.84g
Fat 11g

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