Cannoncini are delightful Italian pastry cones filled with creamy, velvety filling, perfect for any dessert lover. These light, crispy pastries are a popular treat in Italy, often enjoyed with a cup of espresso or as a sweet snack after a meal. The flaky dough is baked to golden perfection and stuffed with a rich cream filling, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water (or as needed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- For the cream filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add vanilla extract and cold water a little at a time until the dough begins to come together. Knead gently until smooth.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out and shape:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
- Wrap the strips around cannoncini molds or small cones, sealing the edges with a little water. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the cream filling:
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Transfer the cream to a piping bag.
- Assemble the cannoncini:
- Once the pastry cones are cooled, carefully remove them from the molds.
- Fill each cone with the cream mixture using the piping bag.
- Serve immediately, or chill for a more set filling.
Enjoy your delicious Italian cream-stuffed cannoncini!