Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delightful Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars, a perfect blend of crispy fillo pastry and rich hazelnut custard. These bite-sized treats make for an elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests at any gathering or celebration. With a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they offer a deliciously crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
These Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. The delicate fillo pastry wraps around a rich custard that is infused with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts.
A Perfectly Balanced Dessert
The Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars are a celebration of textures and flavors. The rich and creamy hazelnut custard filling perfectly complements the crispy, flaky outer layer made from fillo pastry. This combination offers a delightful contrast that makes every bite a treat for the senses. Whether served at a dinner party or holiday gathering, these cigars are sure to steal the spotlight on any dessert table.
With a subtle hint of vanilla enhancing the nuttiness of the hazelnuts, these fillo cigars provide a sophisticated and indulgent experience without being overly sweet. They strike the ideal balance for those who crave a hint of sweetness while still savoring the natural flavors of the ingredients. It's a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars aren’t just for special occasions; they are an excellent choice for day-to-day indulgence as well. Their bite-sized nature makes them a great dessert option for tea time, brunch gatherings, or even an after-dinner treat that your family will love. They are also easy to transport, making them a go-to dessert for potlucks or picnics.
Additionally, they can be adapted for different seasonal occasions or themed parties. Consider adding a touch of festive flair by incorporating seasonal spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard. This allows you to enjoy a versatile dessert that can be customized to fit your taste and the event’s theme.
Tips for Success
When working with fillo pastry, it’s essential to keep the sheets covered as you assemble the cigars. Fillo dries out quickly, and maintaining moisture will keep your pastry flaky and delightful. Utilize a damp kitchen towel to cover the sheets while you work, ensuring that they retain their pliability for wrapping around the custard filling.
For added flavor and texture, consider experimenting with different nuts or flavor extracts in your custard filling. Although hazelnuts are the star ingredient here, you can substitute or mix in almonds or walnuts for a unique twist. Similarly, a splash of coffee or chocolate can enhance the overall flavor profile, making these cigars a truly customizable dessert option.
Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start.
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 sheets of fillo pastry
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Make sure to have everything ready to avoid any interruptions.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars.
Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Once the milk is warm, slowly pour it into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened, then fold in the chopped hazelnuts. Let it cool.
Assemble the Fillo Cigars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay one sheet of fillo pastry on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process. Cut the fillo sheets into rectangles. Place a spoonful of hazelnut custard at one end and roll tightly to form a cigar shape. Brush the ends with butter to seal.
Bake
Arrange the fillo cigars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Once baked, these cigars can be served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
These Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be served at room temperature. For an extra indulgent experience, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy additions contrast beautifully with the crispy fillo, providing a perfect harmony of flavors.
You can also serve them alongside fresh berries, which add a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the custard filling. A light fruit compote can further elevate the presentation, making this dessert a true showstopper.
Storing and Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store the fillo cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, to maintain their crispiness, it’s recommended to consume them fresh. If reheating is necessary, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch.
Avoid microwaving these cigars, as the pastry can become soggy, detracting from the overall texture. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delightful Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars even after their initial bake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds would also work well in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftover fillo cigars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delightful Hazelnut Custard Fillo Cigars, a perfect blend of crispy fillo pastry and rich hazelnut custard. These bite-sized treats make for an elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests at any gathering or celebration. With a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they offer a deliciously crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Created by: Cassidy Moore
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 sheets of fillo pastry
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Once the milk is warm, slowly pour it into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened, then fold in the chopped hazelnuts. Let it cool.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay one sheet of fillo pastry on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and repeat the process. Cut the fillo sheets into rectangles. Place a spoonful of hazelnut custard at one end and roll tightly to form a cigar shape. Brush the ends with butter to seal.
Arrange the fillo cigars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g