Neapolitan Sfogliatella

c
@cocinero44

Sfogliatella is a classic Italian pastry from Naples, known for its shell-like shape and layers of thin, flaky pastry filled with a sweet ricotta and semolina mixture, enhanced with citrus and spices.

Neapolitan Sfogliatella recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
50min

Ingredients

8 Servings
(1 serving = 1 pastry)

For the Dough

  • all-purpose flour
    all-purpose flour
    500g
  • water
    water
    200mL
  • lard
    lard
    100g
  • tbps salt
    tbps salt
    1

For the Filling

  • ricotta cheese
    ricotta cheese
    300g
  • pastry cream
    pastry cream
    100g
  • sugar
    sugar
    100g
  • orange zest
    orange zest
    1
  • cinnamon
    cinnamon
    1tsp

How to make Neapolitan Sfogliatella

Prepare the Dough

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Slowly add water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.

  2. Step 2

    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

  1. Step 1

    In a bowl mix ricotta cheese and pastry cream until a thick mixture forms.

  2. Step 2

    then add in sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Sfogliatella

  1. Step 1

    Roll the rested dough into a very thin sheet. Spread softened lard over the surface.

  2. Step 2

    Roll the dough into a tight log and cut into 2 cm discs.

  3. Step 3

    Take each disc and gently flatten, creating a cone shape by stretching and pulling the edges.

  4. Step 4

    Fill the cone with ricotta mixture and seal the edges.

Bake

  1. Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place filled pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

  2. Step 2

    Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

481.3kcal (24.06%)

Protein

9.1g (18.12%)

Carbs

60.6g (22.05%)

Sugars

13.8g (27.5%)

Healthy Fat

10.7g

Unhealthy Fat

8.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a more traditional flavor, substitute lard with smoked lard for rolling the dough.

  2. Ensure the dough is rolled extremely thin for authentic layers.

FAQS

  1. Can I use butter instead of lard?

    Yes, you can substitute lard with butter, but the texture may differ slightly.

  2. How should I store leftover sfogliatella?

    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

  3. Can I freeze sfogliatella?

    It's best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze them before baking and bake directly from frozen.

  4. What can I serve with sfogliatella?

    Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside an espresso or a sweet dessert wine.

  5. Can I use lemon zest instead of orange?

    Yes, lemon zest can be used for a different citrus flavor.

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