Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini: The Incredible Ultimate Recipe

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is a delightful dessert that transports you straight to the charming streets of Italy with every bite. These delicate, cream-filled pastries, also known as “cannoncini di pasta sfoglia,” combine crispy shells with a rich, sweet filling that makes for an amazing treat. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just indulging in some home-baking therapy, these pastries are certain to impress. Their combination of textures and flavors creates a heavenly experience that will have your taste buds singing.
If you have yet to enjoy Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, you’re in for a treat. The crisp exterior gives way to a luscious cream filling that embodies the essence of Italian desserts. The texture and flavor contrast will make you fall in love at first bite. In this article, you will learn why this recipe is exceptional, how to prepare it, and tips for serving your cannoncini perfectly. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will certainly elevate your dessert game!
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is made traditionally using puff pastry, stuffed with a delectable cream that often includes ricotta and whipped cream, offering a unique twist to your routine dessert selections. This luxurious dessert makes for an impressive finale to dinner parties or family gatherings, showcasing your baking prowess while satisfying cravings for something sweet. Let’s delve into what makes Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini a must-try recipe for everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is an incredible addition to any dessert repertoire, and you’ll find that there are several reasons to love this recipe:
1. Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich cream and flaky pastry creates an unforgettable taste experience.
2. Crispy Texture: The contrast between the crispy shell and smooth filling delivers a delightful bite every time.
3. Versatile Filling: You can customize the filling based on your taste preferences—try adding fruit, chocolate, or even flavored extracts!
4. Impressive Presentation: These elegant pastries are visually stunning, making them perfect for sharing at celebrations.
5. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create impressive results.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dessert, these cannoncini are always welcome.
Every aspect of Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini aims to impress, making them a favorite in many households. Whether served at a soirée or enjoyed during a cozy night in, these treats are bound to leave a lasting impression.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini does not take long, but you’ll want to allocate enough time to prepare the pastry and filling properly. Here’s the approximate breakdown:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15 minutes
– Assembly Time: 10 minutes
Overall, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes to create these amazing pastries. This time frame allows for delicious sweet satisfaction that’s well worth the wait!

Ingredients

– 1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon almond extract
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure your pastries turn out perfectly:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry. Cut the dough into 3-inch wide strips.
3. Shape Cannoncini: Take a cannoli form (or a clean wooden dowel), and wrap a strip of pastry around it, starting at the bottom and overlapping slightly as you go. Brush the ends with egg wash to seal.
4. Bake: Place the wrapped forms on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Once done, remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
6. Fill Cannoli Shells: Carefully remove the cooled pastry shells from their forms. Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each shell with the cream mixture.
7. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the filled cannoncini with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
8. Chill: Place the filled cannoncini in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Following these steps will help you achieve wonderfully tasty Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini with minimal fuss.

How to Serve

When it comes to presenting your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, consider the following tips to ensure they are just as appealing as they are delicious:
1. Plate Artfully: Arrange the pastry on a decorative plate or stand. Consider garnishing with fresh fruit or mint for a pop of color.
2. Accompany with Sauce: Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or berry coulis to elevate the flavors further.
3. Coffee or Dessert Wine Pairing: These pastries pair beautifully with a cup of cappuccino or a glass of dessert wine, enhancing the overall experience.
4. Mindful Portions: Offer smaller servings to encourage guests to indulge without feeling overwhelmed, allowing them to enjoy one or two.
By thoughtfully considering how you serve your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, you’ll create a memorable experience that leaves guests raving about your culinary skills. Enjoy sharing these delightful pastries with friends and family, and watch as they become a treasured recipe in your collection!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality ricotta cheese and heavy cream. This will enhance the flavor of your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini.
– Chill Your Ingredients: For a lighter texture in the filling, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
– Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling for a bright flavor.
– Test the Shells: Make sure the pastry shells are crisp before filling. If they feel soft, return them to the oven for a few more minutes.
– Serve Fresh: For the best texture, fill and serve the cannoncini on the same day, though they can be prepped ahead of time.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations to elevate your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini:
1. Chocolate Filling: Replace half of the ricotta with melted chocolate for a rich chocolate cream.
2. Fruity Twist: Add crushed berries into the filling for a burst of flavor; strawberries or raspberries work wonderfully.
3. Nutty Addition: Mix finely chopped nuts, such as pistachios or hazelnuts, into the filling for extra crunch and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any filled cannoncini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will last 2-3 days.
– Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the unfilled pastry shells. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw and fill with cream.

Special Equipment

To create perfect Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, you’ll need a few essential tools:
– Cannoli forms: Use these to shape the pastry while baking.
– Rolling pin: For rolling out the puff pastry evenly.
– Piping bag: Use this to fill the cannoncini with your luscious cream.
– Baking sheet: A flat surface to place your dough as it bakes.
– Mixing bowl: For preparing the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought filling?
Yes! If you are short on time, you can buy pre-made fillings, although making it from scratch is more delicious.
How can I make the cannoncini more visually appealing?
Consider garnishing with chocolate curls, sliced fruits, or edible flowers on top for an elegant touch.
Is there a gluten-free option for Cannoncini?
You can look for gluten-free puff pastry sheets, which are becoming more widely available.
Are these pastries suitable for children?
Yes! The Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are generally safe and appealing to children, both in flavor and texture.
Can I make these without a cannoli form?
While a cannoli form is ideal for shaping, you can improvise with other cylindrical objects, like a clean wooden dowel or thick straw.

Conclusion

Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is a spectacular dessert that merges elegance with flavor. Their delicate, flaky pastry combined with a rich cream filling makes for a splendid treat that everyone will adore. With these tips and modifications, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste while impressing friends and family. Enjoy the experience of preparing and sharing these delicious pastries!

Print