Cannoli Cream Puffs combine the classic, creamy Italian filling with a light, fluffy puff pastry. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of crispy and creamy textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving something indulgent for yourself, these cannoli cream puffs are sure to impress.
Introduction
When you think of Italian desserts, cannoli immediately comes to mind—crispy shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta filling. This recipe takes that iconic dessert and transforms it into a bite-sized treat, turning it into a puff pastry delight that’s just as irresistible. Imagine a crisp, golden puff shell, delicate and airy on the outside, with a rich, creamy cannoli filling on the inside. It’s an indulgence that combines the best of both worlds, making it the perfect dessert for those who love the traditional flavor of cannoli but want a new twist.
These Cannoli Cream Puffs are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a special gathering, or just want to treat yourself to something sweet, these puffs will fit right in. The recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you don’t have to stress about prep on the day of your event. The blend of sweet ricotta filling and light pastry creates an unforgettable dessert experience that’s sure to delight.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Taste & Presentation: These Cannoli Cream Puffs are rich and flavorful with a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crispiness. They’re as delicious as they are visually impressive, making them a showstopper on any dessert table.
- Dietary Considerations: While this recipe isn’t gluten-free or vegan, it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys rich, indulgent desserts.
- Ease & Versatility: The recipe is easy to follow and offers plenty of room for customization. You can adjust the filling flavors, add chocolate chips or citrus zest, or even drizzle with chocolate for extra flair.
Recipe Card
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 12-15 puffs | 220 calories |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | |
| Water | 1/2 cup | |
| Butter | 1/2 cup | Unsalted |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | Drained |
| Mascarpone cheese | 1/2 cup | |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | |
| Mini chocolate chips | 1/4 cup | Optional |
| Pistachios | 2 tbsp | Chopped, optional |
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions for Cannoli Cream Puffs
Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry
Instructions:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted, and the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Tip: Make sure to cook the dough until it forms a ball to ensure the pastry will rise properly when baking.
Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs
Instructions:
One at a time beat the eggs into the dough. Mix thoroughly after each egg addition, ensuring the dough becomes smooth and shiny. This process should take a few minutes. You may need to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the dough.
Tip: The dough should be thick but smooth and glossy once the eggs are fully incorporated. If the dough appears lumpy, continue stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Pipe the Pastry
Instructions:
Place the dough into a piping bag equipped with a large round tip. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pipe the dough into 12-15 small mounds, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Tip: If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off. Just be sure the mounds are consistent in size for even baking.
Step 4: Bake the Puffs
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the puffs for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Refrain from opening the oven door while baking, as it may cause the puffs to deflate.
Tip: The puffs are ready when they’re golden and firm to the touch. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before filling them with the cannoli cream.
Step 5: Make the Cannoli Cream Filling
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. If you like, fold in mini chocolate chips or finely chopped pistachios for extra texture and flavor.
Tip: Be sure to drain the ricotta cheese before using it to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Step 6: Fill the Puffs
Instructions:
Once the puffs have cooled completely, use a small knife or a piping bag to make a hole in the side of each puff. Gently pipe the cannoli cream into each puff until it’s filled to the top.
Tip: If you prefer, you can also slice the puffs in half and fill them that way for a more open presentation.
Notes
- Substitutions: If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
- Customization: Add chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or candied orange peel to the filling for added flavor variations.
- Serving Tip: Dust the filled cream puffs with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 125mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 3g |
Tools and Equipment Needed
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For combining the filling ingredients |
| Whisk | For blending the dough and the filling |
| Baking sheet | For baking the puffs |
| Piping bag | For filling the puffs |
| Measuring cups/spoons | For accurate ingredient measurements |
The History of Cannoli Cream Puffs
Cannoli Cream Puffs combine two beloved desserts—Italian cannoli and light, flaky cream puffs—into one indulgent treat. While the traditional cannoli hails from Sicily, where it’s made with crispy pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta, cannoli cream puffs give a nod to Italian heritage by incorporating the delicious cannoli filling into a puff pastry shell. The fusion of these flavors brings a taste of Italy to your table, with a modern twist that blends French puff pastry with Sicilian tradition. Over time, this dessert has evolved to suit various palates, especially those craving the creamy, sweet ricotta filling, wrapped in the soft, airy texture of a puff.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cannoli Cream Puffs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the outcome of your dessert. One of the most frequent errors is overbaking the puff pastry. Overcooking the dough can lead to a tough, dry shell instead of the light, crispy texture you want. To avoid this, ensure you follow the recipe’s baking times closely and check the puff pastry regularly towards the end to get that perfect golden color.
Another mistake is overfilling the cream puff with cannoli cream. While it’s tempting to load it up with filling, too much can cause the puff to burst or become soggy. A gentle hand is key here—pipe just enough filling to create a satisfying center without overstuffing. Lastly, using a lower-fat ricotta can result in a less creamy filling. Make sure to use full-fat ricotta for the best texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Profile: The Cannoli Cream Puffs offer a delicious contrast of textures, with the crisp, airy puff pastry filled with smooth, sweetened ricotta cream. The ricotta filling, flavored with vanilla and chocolate chips, creates a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that perfectly complements the lightness of the puff pastry.
Ease of Preparation: While it might look like a complex dessert, these cream puffs are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few steps for the pastry and a simple filling, this dessert is approachable for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatility: These Cannoli Cream Puffs are perfect for various occasions, from casual family gatherings to elegant breakfast parties. Whether you’re serving them for dessert or bringing them to a holiday celebration, they’re sure to impress.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
The key ingredients for Cannoli Cream Puffs are puff pastry and cannoli cream. The puff pastry provides a crispy, flaky shell, while the cannoli cream—made with ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla—forms the rich, sweet filling. If you need to substitute ingredients, consider using a vegan puff pastry for a dairy-free version, or substitute the ricotta with coconut cream for a vegan filling. You can also replace the traditional chocolate chips with mini candied fruits or chopped pistachios to give the filling an extra flavor kick.
For those with dietary restrictions, using gluten-free puff pastry will allow this dessert to be enjoyed by gluten-sensitive individuals. You can also substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake, though this may alter the flavor slightly.
Culinary Magic: The Pleasure of Making This Recipe
Making Cannoli Cream Puffs is a rewarding experience that brings joy and excitement to your kitchen. The process of creating the delicate puff pastry and then filling it with smooth, sweet ricotta cream is a true culinary delight. Each step feels like its own little moment of magic—from the gentle rise of the puff pastry in the oven to the creamy filling coming together to create the perfect texture and flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: The puff pastry doesn’t puff up as expected.
Solution: Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature and the pastry is placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid opening the oven door too early during baking, as the change in temperature can interfere with the puffing process.
Problem: The cannoli cream is too runny.
Solution: If the cream is too thin, strain the ricotta to remove excess moisture. You can also chill the cream for a bit before filling the puffs, as colder cream is easier to pipe and holds its shape better.
Expert Tips for Success
Use High-Quality Ricotta: The quality of ricotta directly affects the flavor and texture of the cream. Look for whole milk ricotta, as it has the best consistency for this filling.
Chill the Cream Puff Shells: Once the puff pastry is baked, allow it to cool completely before filling. This ensures the filling won’t melt or cause the pastry to become soggy.
Piping Technique: When filling the puffs, use a pastry bag with a wide round tip for a smooth, even filling. Pipe from the bottom of the puff, gently filling it until the cream begins to peek through.
Variations and Customizations
Vegan Cannoli Cream Puffs: Replace the ricotta with a coconut or cashew-based cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Mini Cannoli Cream Puffs: For smaller, bite-sized treats, you can use mini puff pastry rounds and pipe smaller portions of cannoli cream into each puff.
Chocolate-Dipped Puffs: For a chocolatey twist, dip the tops of the cream puffs in melted chocolate after filling. This adds a decadent layer and enhances the overall flavor.
Storing Leftovers (Refrigeration/Freezing)
Cannoli Cream Puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the puff’s crispness, it’s best to store the pastry shells and filling separately and assemble them just before serving.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the unbaked puff pastry. Simply assemble the unbaked puffs, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen solid. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Tips for reheating: If freezing, reheating the puffs can cause them to lose some of their crispiness. To refresh the texture, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Cannoli Cream Puffs are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a more elegant presentation, dust them lightly with powdered sugar or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sorbet. They also pair well with a robust coffee or a light, sweet dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is a great option for this recipe and helps save time. Make sure to choose high-quality puff pastry for the best results. Just ensure you follow the baking instructions on the package and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I make the cannoli cream ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cannoli cream ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just give it a quick stir before piping it into the cooled puff shells.
Can I use a different filling instead of cannoli cream?
Yes! While traditional cannoli cream is made with ricotta, you can experiment with other fillings like mascarpone, whipped cream, or even a flavored custard. Just keep in mind that the consistency of the filling should be thick enough to hold its shape inside the puff pastry.
What if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up as expected?
If your puff pastry doesn’t puff up properly, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and that you’ve used enough space between the pastries to allow for expansion. Also, check that you’ve used chilled dough for optimal puffing. Refrain from opening the oven door for the first 15 minutes of baking.
Can I freeze the filled cream puffs?
It’s best to freeze the puff pastry shells before filling them. Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the shells in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw and fill them with the cannoli cream just before serving to maintain the best texture. Filling the puffs before freezing can result in soggy pastry once thawed.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed making these Cannoli Cream Puffs, you might also love these related desserts that bring the same level of sweetness and indulgence. Try making our Italian Ricotta Cheesecake, with its creamy and light filling, perfect for a traditional dessert experience. Or if you’re in the mood for something fruity, why not whip up a batch of Strawberry Tiramisu? It’s a fresh twist on a classic favorite that combines the flavors of strawberry and creamy mascarpone in a deliciously indulgent dessert. For something more adventurous, you can also explore our Lemon Ricotta Cookies, which deliver a soft, citrusy bite that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. These recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Conclusion: A Delicious Intersection of Tradition and Modernity
Cannoli Cream Puffs offer a beautiful blend of classic Italian flavors and modern pastry techniques. With the crispy, flaky puff pastry shells paired with the rich and sweet cannoli cream filling, these little treats bring together the best of both worlds. Perfect for family gatherings, special celebrations, or a weekend treat, they’ll add a touch of elegance and deliciousness to any occasion. The versatility of the filling allows for endless possibilities, making this a recipe that can be enjoyed time and time again.
Call to Action
Ready to make this delicious Cannoli Cream Puff recipe? Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear about your twists, tips, and serving ideas in the comments below. Whether you add chocolate chips to the filling, infuse some citrus zest, or drizzle the puffs with a little melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch, we want to know how you personalize this dessert. Don’t forget to share photos of your Cannoli Cream Puffs on social media and tag us—we love seeing your creations come to life. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other dessert ideas and subscribe for more delicious recipes coming your way. Happy baking!