This Cannelloni-Pie with Pastry Cream Filling and Chocolate Glaze is a fusion of Italian and French pastry traditions, featuring soft baked cannelloni tubes filled with silky vanilla pastry cream, encased in a flaky pastry crust, and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. Inspired by French crème pÒtissière and Italian cannelloni desserts, this pie is a decadent and elegant treat, perfect for special occasions.

β Difficulty Level: β β β ββ (Moderate)
β³ Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
π° Ingredient Cost: ~β¬14
π Ingredients for 4 People
For the Cannelloni Layers:
- 8 cannelloni pasta tubes
- 3 tbsp butter (melted, for brushing)
- Β½ cup chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds (optional)
For the Pastry Cream Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- Β½ cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for extra aroma)
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 150g dark chocolate (70% cocoa, chopped)
- Β½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Β½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Pie Assembly:
- 1 sheet puff pastry or shortcrust pastry
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
π³ Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Cream Filling
- In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, butter, and lemon zest (if using).
- Cover with plastic wrap and let cool completely.
Step 2: Cook the Cannelloni Tubes
- Boil a pot of water with a pinch of salt and cook the cannelloni tubes until just al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water, then brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat oven to 180Β°C (350Β°F).
- Grease a baking dish with butter and line it with puff pastry, pressing it gently into the edges.
- Pipe or spoon pastry cream into each cannelloni tube and arrange them in the pastry-lined dish.
- If using, sprinkle toasted hazelnuts or almonds between the layers for added crunch.
- Fold over excess puff pastry or add an extra pastry layer on top.
- Brush with melted butter for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Set
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and sugar over medium heat until warm.
- Pour over the chopped dark chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 6: Glaze & Serve
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the baked cannelloni pie, spreading evenly.
- Let set for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with whipped cream or gelato.
π Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts and add caramelized sugar drizzle.
- Extra Flavor: Add orange zest or cinnamon to the pastry cream.
- Coffee-Infused: Stir espresso powder into the chocolate glaze.
- Crunchy Layer: Add biscotti crumbles between the cannelloni layers.
π₯ Pairings
- Drink: A smooth Italian espresso or dessert wine (Vin Santo, Amaretto liqueur) βπ·
- Side Dish: Vanilla gelato or fresh berries π¨π
π₯ Nutritional Value (per serving)
- Calories: ~620 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 35g
π₯ Success Secrets
β Use high-quality vanilla and chocolate for the best flavor. β Let the pie cool slightly before glazing. β Toast nuts beforehand for deeper flavor. β Layer pastry cream generously to keep the dessert moist.
π Fun Facts
- Cannelloni pasta is usually used for savory dishes but works beautifully in desserts.
- Pastry cream (crème pÒtissière) is a key component in French patisserie.
- Chocolate and vanilla custard-based desserts are loved in both Italian and French cuisine.
π€© Why You Should Try This Recipe
β A luxurious fusion of Italian and French desserts! β Creamy vanilla pastry cream wrapped in delicate pastry and pasta. β Perfect for special occasions or chocolate lovers. β Combines the best of custard-filled pastries and rich chocolate glaze!
π 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Manicotti shells or crepes work well.
2. Whatβs the best substitute for puff pastry?
Use graham cracker crust or shortbread dough.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake fresh before serving.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze before baking, then bake fresh when needed.
7. Can I serve this cold?
Yes! Itβs delicious warm or chilled.
π Enjoy your homemade Cannelloni-Pie with Pastry Cream Filling and Chocolate Glaze! Donβt forget to share your dish and tag #ThePastaGr on social media! π²