Easy Guava Shortbread Bars

If you are looking for a new twist on a classic shortbread bar these Pastelitos (Guava and Cream Cheese Pastries) inspired bars combine buttery, crumbly shortbread with sweet tropical guava paste for an irresistible treat that is super easy to make.These bars have a super buttery shortbread base that is topped with thick guava paste. Then they are topped with a light and crunchy brown sugar oat streusel! Ideally, I wanted to include a cream cheese layer to make them even closed to my beloved pastelitos but to be honest, they are divine the way they are.

Storage Tips

Make sure to store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week! I do not suggest freezing these bars.

Easy Guava Shortbread Bars

These guava shortbread bars are super tender with an oat filled crust that makes them addictive!

PRep TimePrep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook TimeCook Time 45 minutes mins

Servings 12 bars

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Equipment

• 1 8X8 pan

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter 226 grams, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar 100 grams
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 + 2 Tablespoons cups all-purpose flour 265 grams

Guava Layer

• 16 ounces guava paste sliced to 1/4 inch thick slices (you will have extra)

Brown Sugar Streusel Topping

• 1 cup old fashioned oats 80 grams
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter 113 grams
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar 100 grams
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 5 ounces

Instructions

Make the Shortbread Crust

• Preheat the oven to 325F. Line an 8X8 square pan with parchment paper
• In a large bowl, add the melted butter and sugar. Mix with a non-stick spatula until combined. Add in the vanilla, salt, and flour. Mix again until thick dough forms
• Press dough into the pan and bake for at least 20 minutes until the edges are slightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool

Add the Guava and make the strusel

• In a medium bowl, combine oats, butter, salt, sugar, and flour. Add in the cubes of butter. Using your fingers squish each cube of butter flat, continue this process with each cube. Toss streusel again until large clumps form and some small clumps too.
• Place the slices of guava on top of the par-baked shortbread crust. Pour the strusel on top. Bake at 350F degrees for at least 35 minutes, until the top is thoroughly browned. Remove from oven and let cool. Slice and enjoy!