Take an adventure to Italy with our amazing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini. These delightful pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a sweet treat for yourself. With their flaky puff pastry exterior and rich custard cream filling, they promise to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. The unique combination of textures and flavors makes Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini a standout dessert that captures the essence of authentic Italian cuisine.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Custard Filling
- For the Puff Pastry Shells
- For Decoration
- How to Make Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Step 1: Prepare the Custard Filling
- Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells
- Step 3: Bake and Finish Preparation
- Step 4: Fill Your Cannoncini
- How to Serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- With Fresh Berries
- Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Paired with Coffee or Espresso
- Sprinkled with Toasted Nuts
- Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- On a Dessert Platter
- How to Perfect Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Best Side Dishes for Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Reheating Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different flavors for the cream filling?
- How do I know when my cannoncini are done?
- What is the best way to serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini?
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla-infused custard and flaky pastry creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a cozy dessert at home, these cannoncini can be enjoyed any time.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these pastries in no time.
- Impressive Presentation: Their elegant appearance makes them a perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good pastry, and this recipe is sure to please both adults and children alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cannoncini, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the custard ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Pastry brush: Helps to apply the egg wash evenly on the pastry for a beautiful golden finish.
Ingredients
For the Custard Filling
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tbsp (30 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 ounces (235 ml) milk
For the Puff Pastry Shells
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (defrosted, about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar (for coating)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar
How to Make Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and flour until well combined.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk. Once heated, slowly whisk it into the egg mixture.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the defrosted puff pastry. Cut it into strips approximately 1 inch wide.
- Wrap each strip around a cannoli mold overlapping slightly. Seal ends with water or egg wash.
- Place wrapped molds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Bake and Finish Preparation
- Brush each pastry with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for added sweetness.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before gently removing from molds.
Step 4: Fill Your Cannoncini
- Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each shell with cooled custard filling.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini!
How to Serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are delightful and versatile desserts that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve your cannoncini alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and tartness.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds a rich layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
Paired with Coffee or Espresso
- Enjoy these pastries with a cup of strong coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness and elevate the tasting experience.
Sprinkled with Toasted Nuts
- Garnish your cannoncini with chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream can enhance the creamy texture of the filling, making every bite even more indulgent.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your cannoncini on a beautiful dessert platter with other Italian treats like tiramisu or panna cotta for an impressive presentation.

How to Perfect Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
To achieve the best results with your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, consider these helpful tips.
- Use chilled ingredients: Start with chilled milk and eggs to help create a smoother custard cream.
- Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overfill each cannoncino, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the puff pastry while baking; it should be golden brown and flaky.
- Let them cool before filling: Allow the baked shells to cool completely before adding the custard to maintain their crispiness.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to infuse different flavors into your custard, like lemon zest or almond extract, for a unique twist.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store filled cannoncini in the fridge for up to two days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
Pairing side dishes with your Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing provides a creamy contrast that complements the pastry’s richness.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cannoncini.
- Chocolate Mousse: The velvety texture of chocolate mousse pairs beautifully with the lightness of cannoncini.
- Pistachio Gelato: The nutty flavor of pistachio gelato enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet acts as a palate cleanser between bites of rich cream-filled pastries.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful texture contrast when enjoyed alongside soft cannoncini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini can be a rewarding experience. However, avoiding common mistakes is essential for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients – Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can affect the texture of your custard cream.
- Overfilling the pastry – Fill the cannoncini with the cream just enough to avoid spills. Overfilling may lead to messy presentations.
- Skipping the egg wash – Don’t forget to apply an egg wash before baking. This step gives your puff pastry a beautiful golden color.
- Not preheating the oven – Preheat your oven to ensure even baking. A hot oven helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
- Ignoring cooling time – Allow the filled cannoncini to cool before serving. This ensures the pastry stays crispy and enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the custard separate from the pastry if possible, to maintain crispness.
Freezing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Freeze unfilled pastries in a single layer for up to one month.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place on low heat in a pan, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini.
Can I use different flavors for the cream filling?
Yes! You can infuse your custard with flavors like chocolate or espresso for a unique twist.
How do I know when my cannoncini are done?
Look for a golden-brown color on your puff pastry, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
What is the best way to serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini?
Serve them fresh with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch at any gathering.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and fill them a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until serving.
Final Thoughts
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are not only delightful but also versatile desserts that can impress guests or satisfy your personal cravings. Feel free to customize the filling with various flavors or toppings to make them truly yours. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be glad you did!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, a traditional Italian dessert that brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen. These flaky puff pastry horns are filled with a velvety vanilla custard cream that is simply irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy nights at home, these elegant pastries are bound to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. With their light texture and rich flavor, Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini make a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table. Experience the joy of creating this gourmet treat today!
Ingredients
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz milk
- 1 sheet puff pastry (8 oz)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for coating)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
Instructions
- For the custard filling, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and flour in a bowl. Warm milk in a saucepan, then gradually whisk into the egg mixture. Cook over medium heat until thickened; stir in vanilla and cool.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into strips. Wrap each strip around cannoli molds and seal with water or egg wash.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Once cooled slightly, fill each shell with custard using a piping bag or spoon. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoncino (50g)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg





