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Authentic Italian Sfogliatelle: Crispy Pastries with a Creamy Ricotta Filling

A traditional Italian pastry with a flaky exteriorand a creamy ricotta and semolina filling, featuring hints of vanilla,cinnamon, and candied orange.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 500 g 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 175 ml 3/4 cup water (more if needed)
  • 25 g 3.5 tbsp honey

For the Filling:

  • 450 ml 1.9 cups whole milk
  • 100 g 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 150 g 1 cup semolina flour
  • 500 g 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch cinnamon
  • 50 g 2/3 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped

For Brushing/Topping:

  • 150 g 10 tbsp unsalted butter or lard, melted
  • Confectioner's sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Dough : In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, water, and honey until a rough dough forms. If the dough seems overly dry, incorporate a little extra water. Then, on a floured surface, knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it achieves a smooth and elastic consistency. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to rest.
  • Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan, bring the milk, sugar, and salt to a boil over medium heat. Slowly incorporate the semolina flour while whisking, ensuring to stir constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and chopped candied orange peel. Add the cooled semolina mixture and mix until smooth. Set aside.
  • Shape the Dough: Divide the rested dough into two portions. Roll each portion out as thinly as possible on a floured surface, aiming for a thin, transparent sheet. Brush the rolled dough with melted butter or lard, then carefully roll it into a tight log. Repeat with the second portion, brushing each layer with more melted butter as you roll. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour, allowing the butter to set.
  • Form the Sfogliatelle: Slice each dough log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Take one round and flatten it with your fingers, stretching it from the center to create a small cone shape with thin layers. Spoon a small amount of filling into the center of each dough cone, then carefully close the edges to seal the filling inside.
  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the filled sfogliatelle on the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Brush the tops with more melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  • Dust and Serve: Let the sfogliatelle cool slightly, then dust generously with confectioner’s sugar. Serve warm and enjoy the delicate, flaky pastry and creamy filling!

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal
Keyword Italian Pastry
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