Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini (Puff Pastry Horns)

Indulge in the delightful world of Italian desserts with our recipe for Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, also known as puff pastry horns. These crispy, airy treats filled with a luscious cream filling will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Perfect for special occasions or as an everyday treat, these cannoncini are sure to impress at any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines the flaky texture of puff pastry with a rich, creamy filling.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, gather the following core ingredients:

Puff Pastry: 1 package (about 17.3 ounces) of frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions. Puff pastry is essential for achieving the light and flaky exterior.

Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. This forms the base of your creamy filling and ensures a rich texture.

Powdered Sugar: ⅓ cup powdered sugar, sifted. This adds sweetness to the cream filling without making it grainy.

Mascarpone Cheese: 1 cup mascarpone cheese. This Italian cheese gives the filling its unique flavor and smooth consistency.

Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor profile of your cream.

Egg Wash: 1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water for brushing on the pastry before baking. This will give your cannoncini a beautiful golden color.

Optional Toppings: Additional powdered sugar for dusting or chocolate drizzle if you want to add a touch of elegance.

With these ingredients ready, you are set to create your own batch of delectable cannoncini.

Instructions

Preparing the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.

3. Cut the pastry into long strips, approximately 1 inch wide.

4. Take a cannoli mold or other similar cone-shaped object and wrap each strip around it, starting from one end and overlapping slightly as you go along.

5. Brush each wrapped mold with egg wash to help seal the edges.

6. Place the molds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before carefully removing the molds from the pastry shells.

Making the Cream Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and powdered sugar.

2. Use an electric mixer to whip until stiff peaks form.

3. Gently fold in mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream during this process; you want to maintain that light texture.

Assembling the Cannoncini

1. Once your puff pastry horns have cooled completely, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to fill each horn with the cream mixture.

2. Fill generously but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage.

3. If desired, dust with additional powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an added touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini immediately for best results! They make wonderful additions to dessert platters or can be enjoyed on their own with coffee or tea.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that while they will still taste delicious, the puff pastry may lose some crispness over time.

Enjoy making these Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini as they bring joy and sweetness into your kitchen! Whether you’re preparing for a celebration or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to satisfy every sweet tooth craving while providing an authentic taste of Italy right at home!

Tips and tricks

To make the perfect Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini (Puff Pastry Horns), there are several tips and tricks to keep in mind. First, ensure your puff pastry is thoroughly chilled before rolling it out. This helps achieve a flaky texture during baking. When shaping the cannoncini, twist the pastry around the molds tightly but avoid stretching it too much, as this can lead to uneven baking.

Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking. For a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of the cannoli with an egg wash before baking. Allow them to cool completely before filling them with cream to maintain their crispiness.

Consider experimenting with different fillings for variety. While traditional Italian cream works wonderfully, adding flavors like chocolate or coffee can provide a delightful twist. Lastly, serve the cannoncini fresh for the best experience; they are at their peak when filled just before serving.

FAQs

What is the best way to store Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini?

Storing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini properly can help maintain their texture. Keep baked cannoncini shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you fill them ahead of time, store them in the fridge for no more than 24 hours to prevent sogginess. It’s best to fill them right before serving for optimal freshness and crunch.

Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry for your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini if you prefer! Making your own puff pastry allows you to control the ingredients and achieve a personalized flavor profile. Just remember that homemade puff pastry may require extra time and effort compared to store-bought versions, but the results can be worth it.

What other fillings work well for cannoncini?

While Italian cream is a classic filling for cannoncini, you can get creative with other options. Consider using flavored whipped cream, mascarpone cheese mixed with fruit puree, or even chocolate ganache. Adding zest from citrus fruits like lemon or orange can enhance the flavor profile as well. The possibilities are endless!

The Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini offers a delightful treat with its crispy exterior and creamy filling that everyone will love. Whether served at parties or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. With these tips and variations, you can customize your cannoncini experience while impressing friends and family alike!