If you aren't lucky enough to have an Italian grandmother hidden away in your kitchen baking up a storm for you, head to an Italian bakery — pronto! Few things are as heavenly as a freshly baked pastry from an authentic Italian bakery. With the tantalizing aromas of butter, sugar, and flour wafting through the air, Italian bakeries are known for their yummy treats, especially cookies.
Cannoli
Cannolis are the quintessential Italian bakery treat. From the crunchy shell to the creamy, ricotta-filled center, these little bites are heavenly. Choose yours with the ends dipped in chocolate or a sprinkling of powdered sugar — either way, you can't go wrong.
Pignoli Cookies
If you love pine nuts, you'll go crazy for pignoli cookies. Made with sweetened, shredded coconut and plenty of toasted pine nuts, these cookies are chewy and nutty. They make the perfect after-dinner treat or anytime snack.
Sfogliatella
This delicate pastry is made with layers of flaky dough and a sweet ricotta filling. The sfogliatella is then shaped into a shell shape and baked until golden brown. These delectable pastries are often found at weddings and other special occasions.
Tiramisu
This classic Italian layered dessert is made with mascarpone cream, ladyfinger soaked in coffee liquor, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Tiramisu means "pick me up" in Italian, and that's exactly what this dessert will do. It's light, fluffy, and the perfect way to end a meal.
Calzones
Italian bakeries may be known for their sweet confections, but they always have a few savory treats. A calzone is like a pizza turnover, made with a pizza dough crust stuffed with mozzarella cheese and your favorite pizza toppings, from pepperoni to olives.
Zeppole
An Italian favorite, zeppoles are fried dough balls that are dusted with confectioners' sugar and served with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of gelato. The tasty treats are perfect for a summertime snack or a sweet ending to a hearty Italian meal.
Totto
While typically reserved for Christmas, Italian totto cookies are round balls of spicy goodness dipped in chocolate. The combination of spicy and sweet make them a favorite year after year.
Panettone
Another traditional Italian Christmas treat is panettone, a sweet bread usually studded with raisins or candied fruit. Pannetone is often served with a sweet wine, like prosecco, or a cup of coffee.
These are just a few of the amazing things found at Italian bakeries all across America. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, be sure to pick up a box (or two). You won't be disappointed. Squisito!
For more information, contact an Italian bakery near you.
Share15 November 2022
About a year ago, I realized that I hadn't really branched out and tried the bakeries in my area. As a true lover of baked goods, I started doing everything I could to get out there and enjoy some delicious confections. I started asking friends if they wanted to go out for a brownie and working with other people to see if they could recommend a great place to get a quick bite to eat. It was incredible to try new places, and before I knew it, I was happy to discover restaurants that really made their mark on my life. Check out this blog to learn more about bakeries.