Cream Cannoncini Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Cream Filling

1. Heat the milk: Pour the milk into a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Warm the milk until it is almost boiling, but do not let it come to a full boil.
2. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add the flour: Sift the flour over the egg mixture, and whisk until everything is well combined.
4. Temper the egg mixture: Once the milk is heated, slowly pour a small amount of hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This step helps to temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling. Gradually add the rest of the hot milk, continuing to whisk.
5. Cook the custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Finish the cream: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter (if using), which will give the cream a silky smooth texture. Let the custard cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap (placing the wrap directly on the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate until ready to fill the pastries.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Shape the pastries: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into strips approximately 1-inch wide. Then, wrap each strip around a metal cannoli tube or a wooden dowel, starting from one end and spiraling up to the top. Ensure that the pastry overlaps slightly, so it stays secure while baking.
3. Egg wash: Beat the egg and brush a light coat over the pastry for a golden finish when baked.
4. Bake: Place the wrapped pastry tubes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up. Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool completely before removing them from the tubes.

Step 3: Fill the Cannoncini

1. Prepare the filling: Once your custard has cooled and the puff pastry shells have cooled down, use a piping bag or a spoon to fill each pastry shell with the custard cream. Make sure the filling is smooth and generous, but don’t overfill as it might spill out.
2. Garnish (optional): To add a little extra flair, dust the filled cannoncini with powdered sugar or add chopped pistachios, grated chocolate, or a light sprinkle of cocoa powder on top for a beautiful finish.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Your homemade Cream Cannoncini are ready to serve! These pastries are best enjoyed on the same day they are filled, as the puff pastry can soften if left for too long. Pair them with a good Italian coffee, espresso, or a glass of dessert wine for the ultimate treat.

Tips and Variations

• Homemade Puff Pastry: If you have the time and inclination, you can make your own puff pastry from scratch. It will give the cannoncini an even flakier texture, but store-bought puff pastry is a great shortcut for a quicker, easier version.
• Cream Variation: While traditional cannoncini are filled with a custard cream, you can also experiment with different fillings. For example, mascarpone mixed with whipped cream for a lighter filling, or a chocolate ganache for a richer experience.
• Chocolate-Coated Cannoncini: After filling the pastries, you can dip the ends of each cannoncini into melted chocolate for a delicious chocolatey touch.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the custard cream a day ahead to save time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fill the pastries.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cannoncini is a treat that combines the best of Italian pastry craftsmanship and comforting, indulgent flavors. The contrast between the light, flaky pastry and the smooth, rich cream filling makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re preparing them for a special celebration or simply as a sweet indulgence for a weekend treat, these little pastries are sure to impress.

Give this recipe a try and savor a slice of Italy at home with every crispy, creamy bite!