Guava cheesecake is inviting on its own and this recipe takes the flavor combination to another level by turning it into an ice cream! The rich cheesecake base is delicately accented with tropical guava paste chunks creating a balanced and refreshing dessert. This ice cream comes together with minimal effort and ingredients while delivering a luscious dessert your family will love!

History of Pastelito de Guayaba y Queso

Guava and cream cheese aren’t only paired for a delicious cheesecake - this flavor combination is most famously showcased in a Cuban pastry called pastelito de guayaba y queso. When Cubans started to come to Miami during Fidel Castro’s presidency they also brought their family recipes with them, pastelitos included. Originally these pastries were just puff pastry with guava paste filling, but after arriving to Miami bakers started adding cream cheese which balanced the sweet dessert.

How to make guava cheesecake ice cream?

Now back to ice cream! To begin the recipe first make the cheesecake ice cream by adding the smetana, cream cheese, cream, sugar, salt, and the lemon juice and peel in a food processor. Pulse until fully combined. Transfer the ice cream base into a large bowl, then fold in the guava paste chunks until uniformly spread. Transfer the ice cream into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturers instructions, usually about 20-35 minutes. Place the ice cream into a freezer safe container overnight until it hardens. Enjoy!

Tips

Put the tub from your ice cream maker in a freezer a day or two before starting this recipe.
Cut the guava paste into small chunks so you get some in every bite.
Make sure your container is freezer safe - not all types of glass are fit for freezer and may break.