Guava shortbread cookies bring a delightful twist to classic buttery treats. Combining the rich, crumbly texture of traditional shortbread with the sweet, tropical flavor of guava creates a cookie that’s both familiar and exciting. These cookies are perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of island flair to their baking.
Originating from Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, guava pairs beautifully with buttery dough, offering a subtle fruity sweetness that complements the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a unique snack, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe that blends the best of both worlds—classic shortbread and luscious guava jam. Once you try them, these guava shortbread cookies will quickly become a favorite in your cookie jar.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Guava Shortbread Cookies, we need simple yet high-quality ingredients. Below, we break down the components for the rich, buttery shortbread dough and the luscious guava filling.
For the Shortbread Dough
Gather the following ingredients to build the foundation of our cookies. These elements combine to deliver that classic crumbly texture and buttery flavor:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour – for structure and tenderness
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – adds richness and flakiness
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar – ensures smooth sweetness
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the flavors
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances aroma and depth
For the Guava Filling
The star of these cookies is the vibrant guava jam that imparts tropical sweetness. Use quality jam for best results:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Guava jam | 1/2 cup (160g) | Use smooth or chunky jam |
| Lime zest | 1 teaspoon | Optional, adds brightness |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
This combination of ingredients ensures our Guava Shortbread Cookies will be bursting with buttery richness and fruity vibrancy in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Guava Shortbread Cookies, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and consistent results. Below is a detailed list of tools that we use to achieve the ideal texture and shape for our cookies.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine dough ingredients uniformly |
| Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer | Cream butter and sugar thoroughly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
| Sifter | To sift flour and powdered sugar for smooth dough |
| Rubber or Silicone Spatula | Scrape down bowl sides for even mixing |
| Rolling Pin | Roll out dough to uniform thickness |
| Cookie Cutters | Shape cookies into classic rounds or desired shapes |
| Baking Sheet | Bake cookies evenly |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat | Prevent cookie sticking and easy cleanup |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cookies evenly after baking |
We recommend using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer for creaming the butter and sugar to precisely achieve the light and fluffy texture essential for shortbread. Additionally, investing in quality cookie cutters can help produce beautifully uniform shapes, enhancing the presentation of our cookies.
Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on the baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also promotes even baking by distributing heat consistently. Once baked, placing the cookies on a cooling rack allows air to circulate around each cookie, preserving their delicate crumbly texture.
By equipping our kitchen with these essential tools, we streamline the process, giving us more time to enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of our buttery, guava-filled treats.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Guava Shortbread Cookies with perfect texture and flavor every time.
Preparing the Shortbread Dough
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to cream 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened, and 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add vanilla and salt: Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt to enhance the buttery flavor and balance sweetness.
- Incorporate the flour: Gradually sift and add 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky, with a crumbly texture.
Chilling the Dough
- Scoop the dough into a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to roll out and preventing the cookies from spreading during baking.
Rolling and Cutting the Cookies
- Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin.
- Roll the dough out evenly to approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness.
- Use your favorite cookie cutter or a 2-inch round cutter to cut out shapes.
- Transfer the cutouts to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Leave about 1 inch of space between cookies.
Adding the Guava Filling
- Using the back of a small spoon or your finger, gently press a shallow indent (about 1/2 teaspoon deep) into the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indent with about 1/2 teaspoon guava jam, ensuring the jam is evenly distributed without overflowing.
Baking the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cookies on the center rack for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 12-15 minutes | Edges lightly golden brown |
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- Serve once cooled to room temperature for the perfect crumbly texture and bursting guava flavor in every bite.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Guava Shortbread Cookies in advance can save time and enhance flavor. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to ensure your cookies taste fresh and maintain their perfect texture:
Chill the Dough Overnight
After mixing the shortbread dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Chilling the dough longer than one hour:
- Helps the butter firm up for minimal spreading during baking
- Allows the flour to hydrate, enhancing the crumbly yet tender texture
Tip: Take the dough out 15 minutes before rolling to soften slightly for easier handling.
Prepare the Cookies and Freeze Before Baking
We recommend shaping and assembling the cookies with guava jam, then placing them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze the tray until cookies are firm, about 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Bake frozen cookies for 2-3 minutes longer than the usual 12-15 minutes
Storing Baked Cookies
Once baked and fully cooled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend freshness up to 2 weeks, consider refrigerating the cookies wrapped in parchment. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Make-Ahead Storage Summary
| Step | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shortbread dough | Refrigerate | Up to 48 hours | Wrap tightly, soften before rolling |
| Assembled unbaked cookies | Freeze | Up to 1 month | Bake straight from freezer; add 2-3 min extra bake time |
| Baked cookies | Airtight container | 5 days room temp | Optional refrigeration up to 2 weeks |
“The key to perfect Guava Shortbread Cookies lies in managing dough temperature to achieve that classic buttery, crumbly texture paired with vibrant guava sweetness.”
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure every batch of cookies keeps its signature delicate balance of buttery richness and tropical flavor no matter when you bake or serve them.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Guava Shortbread Cookies fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to enjoy their buttery texture and tropical guava essence at their best.
Storing Baked Cookies
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
- Place cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Consume within 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
| Storage Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Keeps cookies crisp and flavorful |
| Refrigeration | 1 week | Can cause slight texture changes |
| Freezing (baked) | Up to 3 months | Wrap in plastic wrap and foil |
Freezing Baked Cookies
- Freeze fully cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to restore softness.
- Freezing preserves the delicate balance of buttery shortbread and guava jam flavors.
Storing Unbaked Cookies
- Prepare and assemble cookies as instructed.
- Arrange them on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- When ready to bake, add 1–2 minutes to the baking time, baking them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C).
By adhering to these Storage Instructions, we ensure every bite of our Guava Shortbread Cookies remains a perfect harmony of crumbly butteriness and fruity guava brightness.
Conclusion
Guava Shortbread Cookies bring a delightful twist to classic baking with their buttery texture and tropical sweetness. They’re simple to make yet impressive in flavor, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special treat. With the right ingredients, tools, and a little patience, these cookies can easily become a staple in our baking routine.
Whether we’re baking for a festive occasion or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies offer a unique taste experience that’s sure to please. Let’s keep experimenting and savoring the perfect balance of richness and fruity brightness in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Guava Shortbread Cookies?
Guava Shortbread Cookies combine classic buttery shortbread with sweet, tropical guava jam. They have a crumbly texture and a fruity flavor, making them a unique and delicious treat rooted in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
What ingredients do I need to make Guava Shortbread Cookies?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract for the dough. For the filling, guava jam is essential, with optional lime zest and lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
What equipment is required to bake these cookies?
Basic baking tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer or stand mixer, measuring cups, sifters, rubber spatulas, rolling pins, cookie cutters, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, and cooling racks.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading during baking?
Chill the shortbread dough for at least an hour before rolling and baking. This helps keep the dough firm and prevents excessive spreading in the oven.
At what temperature and time should I bake the cookies?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Can I prepare the dough or cookies ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the dough overnight enhances texture and reduces spreading. You can also freeze unbaked or assembled cookies for convenient baking later.
How should I store baked Guava Shortbread Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper, for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to a week or freeze up to three months.
Can I bake frozen cookies directly from the freezer?
Yes, you can bake cookies from frozen. Just increase the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through evenly.
Do Guava Shortbread Cookies have a strong tropical taste?
They have a subtle fruity sweetness from the guava jam balanced with the rich, buttery flavor of the shortbread, offering a perfect harmony rather than an overpowering tropical taste.
Are Guava Shortbread Cookies suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Their unique flavor and elegant appearance make them great for parties, holidays, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.