Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini

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Imagine strolling down a cobblestone street in Italy, surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked pastries and rich, creamy custard. Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini offers an enchanting taste of that experience, wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry shell and filled with a delicate custard cream that’s infused with vanilla. This recipe is both indulgent and elegant, perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat to savor at home. Whether you’re preparing these to impress guests or to satisfy a sweet craving, each bite delivers the comforting flavors and textures of Italy’s beloved desserts.

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Ingredients

For the Custard Cream:

• 3 egg yolks
• 3 tbsp (30 grams) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 ounces (235 ml) milk

For the Cannoncini:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, defrosted (about 8 ounces, 225 grams)
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar (for rolling out the pastry)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Making the Custard Cream

1. Warm the Milk: Start by heating the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and flour together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
3. Combine and Thicken: Slowly pour the warmed milk into the egg mixture, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan.
4. Cook the Custard: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a creamy, smooth custard. This process usually takes about 5–7 minutes.
5. Cool the Custard: Remove the custard from heat, transfer it to a bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap (press the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming). Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

2. Preparing the Pastry Horns

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll and Cut the Pastry: On a surface lightly dusted with sugar, roll out the puff pastry into a 9×12 inch rectangle. Cut the pastry into 12 even strips.
3. Form the Horns: Wrap each strip around a horn mold (overlapping each layer slightly as you go).
4. Apply the Egg Wash: Mix the egg with a tablespoon of water and lightly brush it over the wrapped pastries.
5. Bake: Place the horns seam-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden.
6. Cool: Let the pastries cool slightly before gently removing them from the molds.

3. Assembling the Cannoncini

1. Fill the Horns: Use a piping bag to fill each cooled pastry horn with the chilled custard cream.
2. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the tops of the cannoncini for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Serve your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini immediately, and enjoy a moment of indulgence inspired by Italy!

Tasting Notes

Each cannoncino offers an ideal balance of textures and flavors. The puff pastry, light and crisp, shatters with each bite, giving way to the smooth, rich custard inside. The vanilla-infused filling adds a warm sweetness that complements the buttery pastry, creating a taste experience that is both satisfying and sophisticated.

Tips & Variations

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend that mimics the properties of regular flour in the custard. Additionally, substitute regular puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry, which is available in specialty stores or online.
• Flavor Variations: Add a touch of citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to the custard for a fresh twist, or try almond extract for a nutty depth of flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair your cannoncini with a cup of espresso or a cappuccino for a complete Italian-inspired dessert experience.

Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini offers a way to experience the charm and elegance of Italy’s dessert tradition from your own kitchen. These delicate pastries are sure to impress, transporting you to the heart of Italy with each indulgent bite.