Italy is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and what better way to experience it than through the country’s delectable pastries? From creamy tiramisu to crispy biscotti, Italy’s sweet treats are a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and presentation. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 mouth-watering Italian pastry recipes that will satisfy your cravings and transport you to the Tuscan countryside.
From classic cannoli to innovative ricotta cheesecakes, these sweet treats are sure to impress. Whether you’re a pastry enthusiast or just looking for inspiration for your next baking project, this collection of recipes is sure to delight. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the world of Italian pastries!
Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream
Elevate your coffee break with this creamy and indulgent Tiramisu, made with rich mascarpone cheese and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat steps 3-4, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Slice and serve.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Cannoli with Ricotta Filling
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic Italian pastries filled with a creamy ricotta mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Ricotta filling (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Ricotta Filling:
– 1 pound ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add lard or shortening, granulated sugar, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Fry shells for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and let cool completely.
7. Fill cooled shells with ricotta filling and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
A classic Italian dessert gets a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of a fresh berry compote. This creamy panna cotta is infused with vanilla and topped with a flavorful mix of berries.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. For the berry compote, combine mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the panna cotta chilled with the warm berry compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zeppole with Powdered Sugar
Zeppole with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Zeppole are Italian doughnuts that are typically filled with a sweet ricotta filling and topped with powdered sugar. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, lard or shortening, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Gradually add the milk while kneading the dough for about 10 minutes, until it is elastic and smooth.
5. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
8. Fry the zeppole for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the zeppole from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Dust the zeppole with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including rising time)
Struffoli Honey Balls
These sweet treats are a classic Italian dessert, typically served at Christmas time. Struffoli honey balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, coated in a sweet honey syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Honey syrup (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, lard or shortening, and granulated sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into small squares (about 1 inch).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each square.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Syrup:
– Combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Assembly:
1. Allow Struffoli to cool completely.
2. Dip each ball into the warm honey syrup, coating evenly.
3. Place on parchment paper or a wire rack to dry.
4. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Sfogliatella Riccia Pastry
This traditional Italian pastry is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet and flaky treats. Sfogliatella Riccia, also known as shell-shaped pastry, is a classic Neapolitan dessert that consists of layers of dough and ricotta filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk, yeast, and eggs to form a dough. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick).
4. Cut out shells using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Fill each shell with ricotta mixture (ricotta, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar).
6. Fold the shells in half to enclose the filling.
7. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Biscotti with Almonds
These crunchy biscotti are infused with the deep flavor of dark chocolate and topped with toasted almonds for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Fold in chocolate chips and almonds.
5. Divide the dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired thickness. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each log.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely before slicing into biscotti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese, making it perfect for springtime celebrations or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Amaretti Cookies
Amaretti cookies are a traditional Italian treat that combines the sweetness of sugar with the bitterness of almonds, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. These chewy cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a delightful addition to your holiday cookie exchange.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) ground almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg white
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, ground almonds, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough between two pieces of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Panettone with Candied Fruit
Panettone with Candied Fruit: A Classic Italian Holiday Treat
This traditional Italian dessert is a staple during the holiday season, filled with candied fruit and spices. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm milk
– 1/4 cup of active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons of sugar
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of candied fruit (such as citron and orange peel)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, candied fruit, melted butter, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into a round cake and bake for 35-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Torta della Nonna
This moist and flavorful cake, also known as “Grandma’s Cake,” is a classic Italian dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich aroma and tender crumb, Torta della Nonna is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bomboloni Italian Donuts
Bomboloni are sweet Italian donuts that are typically filled with a sweet ricotta or cannoli cream filling. This recipe brings the classic treat to your kitchen, with a simple and easy-to-follow process.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ricotta or cannoli cream filling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Use a spoon or piping bag to drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Ricotta Cheesecake with Citrus Glaze
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy ricotta cheesecake, topped with a tangy and sweet citrus glaze. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a bright and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Citrus Glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before topping with Citrus Glaze.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp honey
Combine ingredients in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cheesecake and serve.
Pignoli Cookies with Pine Nuts
These Italian cookies are a staple of Christmas celebrations, but they’re perfect for any time of year. With their crunchy pine nut centers and chewy edges, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pine nuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place a pine nut in the center of each cookie. Fold dough over the nut, forming a triangle or square shape. Seal edges with a fork.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cassata Siciliana
This classic Italian dessert, Cassata Siciliana, is a traditional sweet treat from Sicily. Layers of sponge cake, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit create a rich and decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 pound ricotta cheese
– 1 cup candied fruit, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, one at a time, whisking until smooth.
3. Pour in milk and whisk until well combined.
4. Fold in softened butter until batter is smooth.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow cake to cool completely.
7. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
8. Assemble the Cassata by spreading half of the ricotta mixture on top of the cooled cake, followed by half of the candied fruit.
9. Repeat layers and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baba au Rhum
This classic French dessert is a moist yeast cake soaked in a rum syrup, topped with a lightly sweetened whipped cream and caramelized sugar. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons dark rum syrup (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add flour, salt, and sugar; beat until smooth.
3. Pour in melted butter and mix until combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Let cake rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, prepare rum syrup by combining heavy cream and dark rum syrup in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until warm.
8. Remove cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Poke holes all over with a skewer or fork.
9. Pour warm rum syrup evenly over the cake, allowing it to absorb completely.
10. Top with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pastiera Napoletana
Pastiera Napoletana: A Classic Neapolitan Custard Pie
Pastiera Napoletana is a beloved Italian dessert originating from Naples, typically served during special occasions and holidays. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of sweetened ricotta cheese, candied citron, and pastry crust to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup candied citron, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm) and place in a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and ricotta cheese.
6. Stir in chopped candied citron.
7. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined tart pan.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zuppa Inglese Trifle
This traditional Italian dessert is a show-stopping trifle made with layers of creamy custard, sweet sponge cake, and rich chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and stir in brewed coffee. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Assemble trifle by layering cooled custard, sponge cake cubes, and chocolate chips in a large bowl or individual serving dishes.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of Italy with these 18 delectable pastry recipes. From creamy Tiramisu to crispy Zeppole, each treat is a delight for the senses. Try Cannoli with their sweet ricotta fillings or Sfogliatella Riccia Pastry’s delicate layers. For chocolate lovers, Chocolate Biscotti with Almonds are a must-try. And don’t miss Torta della Nonna’s moist cake and Panettone’s candied fruit. These irresistible Italian pastries are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
