Take an adventure to Italy with our amazing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini. This dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. With its flaky puff pastry shell and smooth vanilla custard cream filling, these cannoncini are perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering, an elegant dinner party, or simply a delightful indulgence. Their unique combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

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
- To Decorate
- How to Make Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Step 1: Prepare the Custard Filling
- Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells
- Step 3: Bake the Shells
- Step 4: Fill the Cannoncini
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- How to Serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- For Dessert Buffets
- With Fresh Fruit
- Coffee or Espresso Pairing
- Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- As Part of a Brunch Spread
- 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
- What is Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini?
- Can I use store-bought custard?
- How do I know when my cannoncini are baked perfectly?
- Can I customize the filling?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of creamy custard with the light pastry creates an unforgettable taste.
- Elegant Presentation: These cannoncini look stunning on any dessert table, adding a touch of sophistication.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for celebrations or as an everyday dessert, they suit any occasion.
- Impressive Results: Your friends and family will be amazed at your baking skills when they try these delightful treats!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need for making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini. The right tools will make the process smoother and enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Pastry bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Pastry bag: Allows for neat filling of cannoncini with custard.
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 sprinkling on pastry)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
To Decorate
- 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 smooth.
- Gradually add in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat and cook while stirring until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the defrosted puff pastry on a floured surface until thin.
- Cut strips about 1-inch wide from the pastry sheet.
- Wrap each strip around a greased cannoli mold, overlapping slightly as you go.
- Brush with beaten egg wash, then sprinkle with sugar.
Step 3: Bake the Shells
- Place the wrapped molds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before carefully removing from molds.
Step 4: Fill the Cannoncini
- Once cooled, fill a pastry bag with the custard filling.
- Carefully pipe the custard into each puff pastry shell until filled generously.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy your homemade Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini!
How to Serve Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
Serving Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini is an opportunity to impress your guests and elevate any gathering. These delightful pastries can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for both casual and special occasions.
For Dessert Buffets
- Serve a platter of cannoncini alongside other Italian desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta. This will create a beautiful dessert spread.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair cannoncini with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruits. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit complement the rich cream beautifully.
Coffee or Espresso Pairing
- Enjoy cannoncini with a cup of strong coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the pastry, enhancing the overall experience.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your cannoncini. This creates an irresistible combination that chocolate lovers will adore.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Incorporate these pastries into your brunch menu. They can be served alongside quiches and savory pastries for a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
To truly master the art of making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, here are some helpful tips to ensure your pastries turn out perfectly every time.
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Use cold ingredients: Cold puff pastry works best for achieving that flaky texture. Ensure it’s well-chilled before rolling out.
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Don’t overfill: When filling the cannoncini, avoid overstuffing them with cream. This prevents messiness and ensures a neat presentation.
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Egg wash carefully: Apply egg wash gently on the pastry before baking to achieve a golden-brown finish without excess pooling.
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Let them cool: Allow cannoncini to cool completely before serving. This helps maintain their crispiness and prevents the filling from melting.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini can be accompanied by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:
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Italian Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, olives, and balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gorgonzola pairs wonderfully with sweet cannoncini.
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Gelato: Serving alongside a scoop of creamy gelato enhances the dessert experience with its rich flavors and smooth texture.
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Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote made from seasonal fruits can add a sweet-tart element that complements the richness of the cream.
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Tiramisu: Another classic Italian dessert, tiramisu provides a luxurious coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cannoncini.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These elegant treats offer a romantic touch that fits nicely into any dessert scenario while balancing flavors well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make errors when preparing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini. Here are some common pitfalls to be aware of:
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Skipping the egg wash: Not applying an egg wash can lead to cannoncini that don’t achieve that golden-brown color. Always brush your pastry with egg before baking for a beautiful finish.
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Overcooking the custard: Cooking the custard too long can result in a grainy texture. Stir continuously and remove from heat once it thickens to ensure a smooth cream.
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Using warm milk: Adding warm milk while mixing can cause the custard to curdle. Use cold milk and gradually heat it for the best results.
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Not chilling the filling: Filling cannoncini with warm custard will make the pastry soggy. Allow the custard to cool completely before filling your puff pastries.
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Ignoring puff pastry instructions: Each brand of puff pastry may have its own instructions. Follow the package directions for defrosting and baking for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Freeze unfilled cannoncini in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- For filled cannoncini, freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a container, lasting about 1 month.
Reheating Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20 seconds; this may soften the pastry.
- Stovetop: Place them in a pan on low heat, turning frequently until warmed through, which helps maintain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries:
What is Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini?
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are delicate puff pastries filled with rich vanilla custard cream, offering a delightful treat reminiscent of Italy’s dessert culture.
Can I use store-bought custard?
Yes, you can use store-bought custard as a time-saver, but making your own enhances flavor and freshness in Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini.
How do I know when my cannoncini are baked perfectly?
Perfectly baked cannoncini should be golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them during baking to avoid over-browning.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like chocolate or coffee to your custard or mix fruits into it for different variations of Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini.
Final Thoughts
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are not only delicious but versatile as well. They can be served at any occasion or enjoyed as an everyday treat. Feel free to customize fillings or toppings according to your taste. Dive into this recipe and experience a little slice of Italy today!
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Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Italian Cream Stuffed Cannoncini are a delightful Italian dessert that combines flaky puff pastry with rich, velvety vanilla custard filling. Perfect for any occasion, from elegant dinner parties to casual gatherings, these delicious pastries will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. The contrast between the crisp pastry and smooth custard creates an unforgettable taste experience that transports you straight to Italy. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are a must-try treat for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 ounces milk
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the custard filling by whisking egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth. Gradually stir in cold milk, then cook over medium heat until thickened. Add vanilla extract and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into strips. Wrap strips around greased cannoli molds, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before removing from molds.
- Fill each shell with cooled custard using a pastry bag.
- 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
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg