Puerto Rican Cream Cheese Guava Dip – Easy Tropical Appetizer

I grew up in Puerto Rico, and some of my sweetest memories are from my abuela’s kitchen. There was always guava paste in the pantry, ready to be sliced and served with salty cheese for a quick merienda. This Puerto Rican guava dip is my modern, party-ready twist on those flavors I grew up loving. The tropical sweetness of guava blends with rich cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and a drizzle of honey for balance, while a hint of garlic keeps it from being too sweet.

This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires no cooking—just a quick step to soften the guava paste before blending everything into a smooth, creamy dip. It’s perfect with crackers, pita chips, plantain chips, or fresh veggies, and it’s an easy way to bring a taste of Puerto Rico to your table.

Because it’s chilled before serving, this dip works wonderfully as a make-ahead appetizer for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. It’s simple, full of flavor, and inspired by the kind of comfort food you’d find in abuela’s kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 5 oz guava paste – A thick, sweet fruit paste made from guava fruit and sugar. Common in Puerto Rican and other Latin American kitchens, guava paste is sold in blocks or bars in the Latin foods section of many grocery stores.
• 1 cup cream cheese – Gives the dip its rich, creamy texture. Full-fat cream cheese makes the smoothest dip, but you can use reduced-fat if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – Lightens the cream cheese and adds tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Adds sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Brings in a subtle savory note that works well with the guava.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cut the guava paste into small chunks and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to soften it, making it easier to blend.

Set up a food processor with the blade attachment. If you don’t have one, a high-powered blender or immersion blender will work, but you may need to scrape the sides more often.

Add the softened guava paste, cream cheese, sour cream, honey, and minced garlic to the food processor. Pulse a few times to combine, then blend until completely smooth. Stop once or twice to scrape down the sides so there are no lumps.

Taste and adjust as needed. Add more honey if you prefer it sweeter or a little more sour cream to lighten the texture.

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors come together and gives the dip a better consistency.

Serve with crackers, pita chips, plantain chips, or fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery sticks, and bell pepper strips.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Bring cream cheese to room temperature before blending for a smoother texture.

If your guava paste is very sweet, reduce the honey to one tablespoon.

Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic can be used if needed.

Make it ahead: Prepare the dip up to two days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Adjust the sweetness: Reduce or omit the honey if you want a less sweet dip.

Add heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a sweet-and-spicy version.

Add citrus: Mix in a teaspoon of lime juice to brighten the flavors.

Lighten it up: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich option.

Use as a spread: This guava paste dip is also delicious on toast, bagels, or sandwiches.

Serving Ideas

Serve this Caribbean-inspired guava dip in the center of a platter surrounded by crackers, pita chips, plantain chips, and fresh fruit like pineapple chunks or mango slices.

For a lighter option, pair it with fresh vegetables such as cucumber, celery, and bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Stir before serving to restore its creamy texture. Freezing is not recommended as the dairy may separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make guava dip without a food processor?
Yes. A hand mixer or immersion blender will work, but make sure the guava paste is soft enough to blend easily.

Where can I find guava paste?
Look in the Latin foods aisle of your local grocery store or order it online. In Puerto Rico, it is widely available in most supermarkets.

Can I use guava jelly instead of guava paste?
Guava jelly is softer and has more liquid, which will make the dip runnier. For best results, stick with guava paste.

Can I make this for a large party?
Yes. Simply double or triple the ingredients. The preparation method and chilling time remain the same.