Ricotta and Pear Filo Cigars – Crispy, Creamy, Totally Irresistible Recipe
These Ricotta and Pear Filo Cigars are a delightful blend of creamy, fruity filling wrapped in crispy, golden filo pastry. The combination of ricotta and mascarpone cheeses with sweet pear, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a luscious interior that contrasts perfectly with the buttery, flaky exterior. Finished with a drizzle of honey and toasted walnuts, these elegant pastries make a perfect dessert or sophisticated snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Yield: 8 cigars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 ripe pear, finely diced
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pastry
- 8 sheets filo dough, thawed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Toppings
- 2 tbsp honey, for drizzling
- 2 tbsp crushed walnuts, toasted
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the ricotta, mascarpone, finely diced pear, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until you achieve a smooth and well-combined filling.
- Prepare the filo stacks: Lay one sheet of filo dough flat on a clean surface and lightly brush it with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush it with butter as well. Repeat this process to create four stacks, each containing two layers of filo dough.
- Cut the filo stacks: Cut each filo stack in half widthwise to create smaller rectangles suitable for rolling.
- Assemble the cigars: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the prepared filling along the short edge of each filo piece. Fold the sides inward to enclose the filling and carefully roll the filo sheet up like a cigar, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to keep it sealed during baking.
- Prepare for baking: Place the assembled cigars seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Brush the tops generously with melted butter to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the cigars for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Finish and serve: Remove the cigars from the oven and while still warm, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted crushed walnuts. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Handle filo dough carefully as it dries out quickly; keep unused sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
- The pears should be ripe but firm to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Make sure to brush each filo sheet with butter for the crispiest texture.
- These cigars can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Keywords: ricotta, pear, filo cigars, dessert, Italian pastry, mascarpone, honey, walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla
