There’s a comforting joy in preparing simple desserts that bring people together. One of the recipes that always fills my home with warmth is Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard. These crispy pastries wrapped around a smooth, nutty custard have become a weekend tradition in my kitchen. I still remember the excitement of my kids helping me fold the delicate fillo sheets, turning baking moments into memories we cherish. Whether served at family dinners or festive gatherings, these cigars never fail to impress. Once you try these Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home as well.
Key Benefits of Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard
- Quick and simple to prepare
- Ideal for family-friendly desserts
- Great for busy days
- Requires budget-friendly ingredients
- Always a crowd-pleaser
- Easy to store and reheat
Ingredients for Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard
- 10 sheets fillo pastry
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 cup hazelnut meal
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a small bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk hazelnut meal, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Lay out one sheet of fillo pastry and brush it with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush again.
- Spoon a strip of custard mixture along one edge of the layered fillo.
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly to form a cigar shape.
- Repeat with the remaining sheets and filling, placing each roll seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Substitute hazelnut meal with almond or pistachio for new flavors.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm touch.
- Assemble the cigars ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- Pair with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra richness.
- Use low-fat milk or less sugar for a lighter version.
more recipe
How to Serve
Warm Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Arrange them on a serving platter and lightly dust with powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a warm cup of coffee or tea. The contrast between the crisp fillo and smooth custard makes each bite memorable and perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
FAQs
Can I make Fillo Pastry Cigars ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance, keep them covered, and bake just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispiness.
What can I serve with these cigars?
Fresh fruit or a simple scoop of ice cream enhances the flavors without overpowering the dessert.
Fillo Pastry Cigars with Hazelnut Custard
Ingredients
For the cigars
- 10 sheets sheets of fillo pastry
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup hazelnut meal Can substitute with almond or pistachio meal
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk Can use low-fat milk for a healthier option
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- to taste Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stove.
- In another bowl, whisk together the hazelnut meal, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Assembly
- Take one sheet of fillo pastry and brush it with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush it again.
- Spoon a line of the hazelnut custard mixture along one edge of the layered fillo sheets.
- Carefully fold the edges in and roll the fillo around the filling to form a cigar shape.
- Continue this for the remaining sheets and filling, placing each cigar seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Baking
- Brush the tops with more melted butter and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for presentation.