Do you have a sweet tooth? Are you looking for some new dessert recipes to try? If so, you’ll want to check out this list of 65 Italian desserts. From tiramisu to cannoli, there’s something for everyone on this list. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
Table of contents
Affogato
Affogato is a unique and delicious Italian dessert that is perfect for any occasion! This indulgent treat consists of rich, creamy ice cream topped with piping hot espresso. The combination of these two classic flavors results in an unforgettable taste sensation that will have you coming back for more.
If you’re looking for a truly special dessert to impress your guests, look no further than affogato. This dish is sure to delight even the most discerning palates, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Just scoop some quality ice cream into bowls or cups, top with freshly brewed espresso, and enjoy!
Angel wings
Angel wings are a dessert made with ladyfingers (a type of light sponge cake) dipped in coffee, layered with a whipped mascarpone cream mixture, and then dusted with cocoa powder. They are named for their resemblance to the wings of angels. Angel wings can be made either by assembling them individually or by forming them into a cake.
Barbajada
Barbajada is a traditional Italian dessert that is made with ricotta cheese, chocolate, and espresso. It is said to originate from the city of Palermo in Sicily.
The word “barbajada” comes from the Sicilian word “barba”, meaning beard. This is most likely due to the fact that the chinabanca, or Ladyfingers, are used to create this dessert and they resemble a small beard.
Traditionally, barbajada is served in a glass cup with a handle so that it can be easily held while enjoying the delicious flavors. The bottom layer of the cup is filled with ricotta cheese, then espresso and chocolate are added on top.
Baxin
Baxin is a divine, Italian dessert that will tantalize your taste buds with its rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture. Although it’s quite easy to make, this delightful treat is sure to impress your friends and family!
Biscotti
Biscotti are an Italian cookie that are twice-baked. They were originally made to be able to be stored for a long time, and they were perfect for traveling on long journeys.
Today, biscotti are often served as a dessert with coffee or tea. They can also be used in recipes for bread pudding or French toast. The most common flavors for biscotti are almond and vanilla, but they can also be made with other flavors such as chocolate, cherry, and pistachio.
Biscuit Tortoni
If you’re looking for a tantalizing Italian dessert, look no further than biscuit tortoni! This delectable treat is made with Ladyfingers biscuits, marsala wine, coffee, and creamy custard. It’s then topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, making it an irresistible indulgence.
Biscuit tortoni is the perfect finale to any meal. Its impressive presentation is sure to impress your dinner guests, while its rich flavors will leave them wanting more. And because it can be made ahead of time, it’s a great option for busy hostesses. So next time you’re planning an Italian feast, be sure to include biscuit tortoni on your menu!
Bombolone
Bombolone is an Italian dessert made from a sweetened doughnut-like batter which is deep-fried and often filled with cream or a sweet fruit jam. The name bombolone comes from the Italian word for “balloon”, and these desserts do in fact resemble large round balloons when they are freshly fried. They are usually eaten either warm or cold, and can be dusted with powdered sugar, icing sugar, or chocolate.
Bruttiboni
Bruttiboni is an Italian dessert that is made from a thin, light pastry crust that is filled with a sweet filling and then baked. The most common type of Brutiboni is filled with a sweetened ricotta cheese mixture, but other variations can also include chocolate, nuts, or fruit.
Budino
Budino is an Italian dessert that is typically made with a flourless chocolate cake as the base. The cake is then topped with a sweetened custard or whipped cream. Some variations of budino also include added ingredients such as nuts, fruits, or liqueurs.
Budino is a popular dessert in Italy and can be found in many pastry shops throughout the country. It is also sometimes served as part of a multi-course meal or after dinner coffee. Although it can be eaten cold, most people prefer to enjoy it warm.
Camporelli
Camporelli is a classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers, espresso, and mascarpone cream. It’s typically served as a semifreddo or ice cream cake.
This dessert was created by the Camporelli brothers who opened a pastry shop in Rome in the early 1900s. Camporelli quickly became popular with locals and visitors to the city alike. The recipe has been passed down through the generations and remains one of Italy’s most beloved desserts.
Cannoli
Cannoli is an Italian dessert that is made of a fried dough shell that is filled with a sweet, creamy filling. The most popular flavor of cannoli filling is ricotta cheese, but other variations include chocolate, pistachio, and strawberry.
Cartocci
Cartocci is an Italian dessert that is made of sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate. It is often served as a dessert after a meal.
Cartocci gets its name from the word cartoccio, which means “package” in Italian. This dessert is made by shaping the ricotta cheese mixture into small balls, then rolling them in a mixture of sugar and cocoa powder. The balls are then chilled until they are ready to be eaten.
Cartocci is a delicious and decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth!
Cassata
Cassata is an Italian dessert made from sponge cake, ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and chocolate. It was originally from Sicily and is now popular throughout Italy.
Cavallucci
Cavallucci is a traditional Italian dessert that is made with flour, sugar, honey, olive oil, and anise. It’s typically served as a Christmas dessert.
Ciambella
Ciambella is an Italian dessert that is typically a ring-shaped cake made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and rum. It can also be flavored with various other ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, or fruits.
Colomba di Pasqua
Colomba di Pasqua is an Italian dessert made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, yeast, and a hint of vanilla. It’s often shaped like a dove or a pigeon (colomba means “dove” in Italian), and it’s typically served around Easter time.
The dough is quite light and airy, and the flavor is delicate and slightly sweet. Colomba di Pasqua is a popular dessert in Italy, but it can also be found in some specialty bakeries here in the United States. If you’re ever near an Italian bakery during Easter time, I definitely recommend giving this dessert a try!
Confetti
Confetti is an Italian dessert that’s made from small pieces of dough that are deep-fried and covered in a sweet icing. They’re often served at celebrations like weddings and birthdays, and they can be either plain or flavored with things like chocolate, lemon, or vanilla.
Crocetta of Caltanissetta
Crocetta of Caltanissetta is a traditional Italian dessert that is made with chocolate, almonds, and Marsala wine. It is named after the town of Caltanissetta in Sicily, Italy.
This dessert is usually served as a layered cake or pastry that is topped with a chocolate frosting. The chocolate frosting can be made with either dark or milk chocolate. The almonds are usually toasted and then chopped into small pieces. The Marsala wine gives the dessert a sweet and slightly alcoholic flavor.
Crostata
Crostata is a classic Italian dessert that features a flaky pie crust filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and topped with either berries or apricots. This simple dessert is easy to make and always a hit with guests!
Cruste
Cruste is an Italian dessert that is composed of a sweet and creamy filling sandwiched between two thin crusts of dough. The dough can be made from flour, eggs, sugar, oil, and water; and it can be flavored with vanilla extract or almond extract. The creamy filling is typically made from ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, and ground cinnamon. Cruste can be served either warm or cold and is best enjoyed within a day or two of being made.
Cucidati
Cucidati are a type of Italian dessert that are made from figs. They are rolled up figs that are filled with a sweet mixture of nuts, spices, and honey.
Cupeta
Cupeta is a traditional Italian dessert that is basically a chocolate-covered grape. The grapes are dipped in melted chocolate and then rolled in chopped hazelnuts. Cupeta is a very simple dessert to make, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover grapes you may have.
Frutta martorana
Frutta martorana is a traditional Sicilian dessert made from marzipan fruit. The word “martorana” comes from the Arabic word for almond, “mazruta.” The dessert was created by nuns in the convent of Santa Maria della Martorana in Palermo.
The nuns used to make fruit-shaped statues out of marzipan as part of their Christmas celebrations. These statues were so popular that the people of Palermo started asking for them year-round. And so, Frutta martorana was born!
Gelato
Gelato is an Italian dessert made with milk, cream, sugar, and eggs. It has a higher milk fat content than ice cream, giving it a richer flavor and a softer consistency. Gelato also contains less air than ice cream, resulting in a denser product.
Genoise
Genoise is an Italian dessert that is light, fluffy, and spongy. It is made from flour, sugar, eggs, and butter.
Genoise is a great dessert because it is light and fluffy. It also has a subtle flavor that goes well with many different types of toppings.
Gianduja (chocolate)
Gianduja is a type of Italian dessert that combines chocolate and hazelnut paste. The result is a rich, creamy, and intensely flavorful treat that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
If you’re looking for something special to satisfy your sweet tooth, give gianduja a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Gianduiotto
Gianduiotto is an Italian dessert that is made from chocolate and hazelnut paste. It is a very thick paste, and it is often eaten as a spread on bread or toast.
Granita
Granita is a refreshing Italian dessert made from sugar, water and fruit. The mixture is frozen into shards that can be eaten like an ice cream. It’s popular in Southern Italy, where it’s often flavoured with coffee, chocolate or lemon.
Ladyfinger
Ladyfinger is an Italian dessert made from ladyfingers (or savoiardi), coffee, a sweet syrup, and whipped cream. The dish is often layered with chocolate and whipped cream, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy chocolate-flavored desserts. Ladyfingers are also used as the base for other Italian desserts, such as tiramisu.
Marron glacé
Marron glacé is an Italian dessert made from chestnuts that have been cooked in sugar syrup and then glazed. The chestnuts are usually served whole, and the dish is often garnished with fruit or chocolate. It can be served as a standalone dessert or as a topping for other desserts such as ice cream or cake.
Marzipan
Marzipan is a type of Italian dessert made from almonds, sugar, and egg whites. It is often used to decorate cakes and pastries and can be molded into different shapes. Marzipan is also a popular candy in many European countries.
Mustacciuoli
If you’re looking for a delicious Italian dessert, you’ll want to try mustacciuoli. This sweet treat is made with semolina flour, sugar, eggs, and orange peel. It’s often decorated with candied fruit or nuts, and it’s absolutely delicious!
Neapolitan ice cream
Neapolitan ice cream is a classic Italian dessert made with three layers of different-flavored ice creams. The first layer is usually strawberry, the next layer is usually vanilla, and the top layer is usually chocolate. Some variations also include a layer of pistachio ice cream in the middle.
Nocciolini di Canzo
Nocciolini di Canzo is a traditional Italian dessert made with hazelnuts and almonds. The name comes from the town of Canzo in Lombardy, where the dish is said to have originated.
Nocciolini di Canzo are typically round or oval-shaped, and they have a deliciously nutty flavor. They are often served with a sweet wine or liquor, making them the perfect after-dinner treat.
If you’re ever in Italy, be sure to try a Nocciolini di Canzo!
Nutella
Nutella is a sweet, chocolatey Italian paste that’s perfect for spreading on toast, using as a cookie filling, or just eating by the spoonful! This divine hazelnut and chocolate concoction was invented in the early 1940s by Mr. Ferrero, and has been gracing breakfast tables and dessert plates ever since.
So what exactly is in Nutella? Well, it’s made from roasted hazelnuts, cocoa, milk, sugar, and vegetable oil. This simple yet heavenly combination of ingredients makes for a rich, creamy treat that’s impossible to resist.
Pandoro
Pandoro is a classic Italian dessert. It’s a light and airy loaf-shaped cake that’s coated in a sweet and fluffy vanilla-flavored frosting. Pandoro is often served during the Christmas season, but it can be enjoyed all year long.
Panettone
Panettone is a classic Italian dessert often served around the holidays. It’s a type of sweetbread made with flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and yeast. The dough is then filled with candied fruit and raisins, and topped with a glaze or icing.
Panettone is thought to have originated in Milan in the 15th century. It was originally made as an Easter bread, but eventually became popular throughout Italy and other parts of Europe. Today, it’s considered one of Italy’s most iconic desserts.
Panforte
Panforte is an Italian dessert that is typically made with fruits and nuts. The name panforte means “strong bread” in Italian, and the dessert is supposed to have a very robust flavor.
The ingredients for panforte vary, but most recipes call for: flour, sugar, honey, candied fruit peel, almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, spices (cinnamon, ginger), and white wine. The mixture is typically baked in a Bundt-style cake pan.
Panforte is often served as a Christmas dessert. It can be eaten alone or with coffee or tea.
Panna cotta
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made with heavy cream, sugar, and gelatin. It’s a creamy, custardy dessert that can be flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or fruit purees. Many people also like to serve panna cotta with a sauce or fruit compote on top.
Panna cotta is easy to make and it’s a great way to use up any leftover cream you might have. It’s also a good dessert for entertaining because it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.
Panpepato
Panpepato is a delicious Italian dessert that originates from the city of Ferrara. It is typically made with a variety of nuts, spices and chocolate, and is often servant as a holiday treat.
The exact history of Panpepato is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed to date back to the 16th century. At that time, Ferrara was under the rule of the powerful Este family. This family was known for their love of sweets, and it is thought that they may have commissioned the creation of this dessert.
Pasticciotto
Pasticciotto is a traditional Italian dessert that is made with a sweet, pasty dough that is filled with a creamy custard or chocolate. It can be either round or oval in shape, and it is usually garnished with powdered sugar or icing sugar.
This delicious dessert was first created in the city of Bari in southern Italy, and it quickly became popular throughout the country. Today, Pasticciotto is considered to be one of the most iconic desserts in all of Italy.
Pastiera
Pastiera is a traditional Italian dessert made from cooked wheat, ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and eggs. The name of the dish is derived from the Latin word for ” Easter “, because it is traditionally eaten during the Easter season.
This dessert is typically enjoyed throughout Italy, but especially in the Naples region. It can be made in a variety of different ways, but most versions include a wheat-based dough that is filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese and eggs. The dough is then baked until it’s golden brown and finished with a sweet glaze or icing.
Pastiera is a delicious and decadent dessert that everyone should try at least once!
Penuche
Penuche is a rich, smooth and creamy Italian dessert made with brown sugar, butter and heavy cream. It has a caramel-like flavor and often contains nuts.
Penuche is very easy to make and just requires a few simple ingredients. The resulting dessert is incredibly rich, decadent and delicious – perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Pignolata
Pignolata is a mouthwatering Italian dessert that will tantalize your taste buds! This enchanting treat is made with fried dough balls that are covered in a sticky, sweet glaze. The result is an irresistible confection that is simply irresistible. Order pignolata the next time you are craving something sweet and decadent, and you will not be disappointed!
Pinza
Pinza is a type of Italian dessert that is made with a sweet bread dough and can be filled with various different fillings. It is often served at weddings and other special occasions. The word pinza comes from the Italian word for “pinch”, which refers to the way in which the dough is pinched together to form the pastry. Pinza can be made in many different shapes and sizes, and can be either fried or baked. The most common fillings for pinza include ricotta cheese, Chocolate, and almonds. Pinza is a delicious treat that is sure to please any sweet tooth!
Ricciarelli
Ricciarelli are a type of Italian dessert made from almonds, sugar, egg whites, and flavorings. They are related to amaretti, but are typically larger and have a more pronounced almond flavor.
Ricciarelli were originally created in the town of Siena in Tuscany. The name “ricciarelli” means “little curls”, which refers to the shape of the cookies.
Sanguinaccio dolce
Sanguinaccio dolce is an Italian dessert that is traditionally made with pig’s blood, milk, chocolate, and nuts. It is often served during the Carnival season.
The origins of sanguinaccio dolce are somewhat unclear, but it is thought to have originated in Southern Italy. The name sanguinaccio comes from the Italian word for blood (sangue), and dolce means sweet. Thus, sanguinaccio dolce literally means “sweet blood.”
Despite its ingredients, sanguinaccio dolce is actually quite a delicious dessert.
Semifreddo
Semifreddo is an Italian dessert made with eggs, sugar, cream, and flavorings. The mixture is poured into a loaf pan, frozen, and then sliced to serve.
Semifreddo means “half cold” in Italian, and the dessert is halfway between ice cream and cake in terms of texture. It’s smooth and creamy, but also has a slightly firm texture that makes it easy to slice. Semifreddo can be flavored with a variety of different ingredients, including chocolate, coffee, fruit flavors, or nuts.
Sfinge
Sfinge is an Italian dessert that typically consists of a fried dough base, topped with ricotta cheese and often dusted with confectioners’ sugar. It can also be made with a variety of other fillings, including chocolate, jam, or fruit. Sfinge originates from the city of Palermo in Sicily and is a popular treat throughout Italy.
Sfogliatella
Sfogliatella is an Italian dessert made from a thin pastry filled with a sweet ricotta cheese mixture.
It is believed that this dessert was created in the city of Naples, and it gets its name from the Italian word “sfoglia”, which means “sheet” or “blade”. This is because the dough for this dessert is made by rolling out a sheet of pasta dough, and then cutting it into thin strips. These strips are then filled with the ricotta cheese mixture and rolled up like a jelly roll.
Spumoni
Spumoni is a classic Italian dessert, typically made from three different colors of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, pistachio), as well as whipped cream and nuts. It’s named after the word “spuma” meaning foam in Italian.
This delightful frozen treat can be found around the world, but it’s said to have originated in Italy. Today there are variations of spumoni that include different flavors and ingredients like candied fruits, cookies, and even cake. It’s a popular dessert choice for celebrations and special occasions!
Struffoli
Struffoli are Italian christmas desserts that are made of fried balls of dough that are then coated in honey and sprinkled with colorful confetti. They are often served in a pyramid shape and intended to be eaten with your hands. Some say that struffoli represent wealth and good fortune, which is why they are often given as gifts during the holiday season.
These little fried treats originated in Naples, but have since become popular all over Italy (and beyond). If you’re ever in Italy during Christmastime, be sure to try some struffoli!
Sugoli
Sugoli is an Italian dessert that is absolutely delicious! It is made with ricotta cheese, Marsala wine, and honey. The result is a sweet and creamy treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Tartufo
Tartufo is a luscious Italian dessert that will make your taste buds sing! This decadent treat is made with creamy chocolate and rich mascarpone cheese, and it’s simply heavenly. Tartufo means “truffle” in Italian, and just like its namesake, this dessert is truly something special. Just one bite will have you falling in love with its sumptuous flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and try some tartufo today!
Tiramisu
If you’ve never had tiramisu before, you’re in for a treat! Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that consists of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone filling, and dusted with cocoa powder.
The word tiramisu means “pick me up” or “cheer me up” in Italian, and this delightful dessert is sure to do just that. Tiramisu is the perfect balance of sweet and caffeine-kick, making it the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up.
So if you’re looking for something new to try (and maybe even impress your friends with), definitely give tiramisu a taste!
Torrone
Torrone is a sweet, sticky treat that originated in Italy. It’s made with a combination of honey, sugar, egg whites, and roasted nuts (usually almonds or hazelnuts), and often flavored with citron or vanilla. Sometimes torrone is also studded with dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
Torrone is typically eaten around Christmastime in Italy, when it’s sold by street vendors and in candy shops. But you can find it year-round if you know where to look (or if you make it at home!). ##
If you’ve never had torrone before, imagine something like nougat or fudge – only much softer and more delicate.
Torta alla Monferrina
Torta alla Monferrina is an Italian dessert that is absolutely delicious. It is made with a combination of flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and cream, and it is absolutely heavenly. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves sweets. It is the perfect way to end a meal, and it will definitely leave you wanting more. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Torta caprese
If you’re looking for a delicious and decadent Italian dessert, look no further than the Torta caprese. This sumptuous treat is made with chocolate and almond flour, resulting in a rich and moist cake that will simply melt in your mouth.Layer upon layer of chocolate ganache makes this cake truly indulgent, while the fresh raspberries and festive decorations give it a beautiful presentation. perfect for any special occasion.Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious dessert, the Torta caprese is sure to impress.
Taralli
Italy is renowned for its delicious food, and Taralli are no exception. These little bites of heaven are a traditional Italian dessert that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Made from a simple dough of flour, water and salt, they are fried and then baked to perfection. The result is a light and crispy treat that is simply irresistible.
Taralli come in many different varieties, each with their own unique flavor. From classic plain to mouth-watering chocolate, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And because they are so addictively delicious, it’s hard to eat just one (or two… or three!)
Uovo sbattuto
Uovo sbattuto is an Italian dessert made from eggs, sugar, and Marsala wine. The eggs are beaten together until they form a foamy mixture, then the sugar and Marsala wine are added and beaten in until the mixture is thick. It’s usually served chilled or at room temperature.
Zabaione
Zabaione is an Italian dessert that is made of egg yolks, sugar, and wine. It is often flavored with vanilla or chocolate. Zabaione can be served either hot or cold.
Zeppole
Zeppole are a traditional Italian dessert that are made from a yeasted dough that is deep-fried and then rolled in sugar. They are usually served with a dusting of powdered sugar or with a sweetened whipped cream.
Zuccotto
Zuccotto is a classic Italian dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. This decadent treat consists of a chocolate or cream-filled shell that is coated in a layer of rich chocolate ganache or frosting. Inside the zuccotto, there is typically a layer of flavorful espresso-soaked sponge cake or ladyfingers. If you are looking for an impressive dessert that will tantalize your taste buds, then look no further than zuccotto!
Zuppa Inglese
Zuppa Inglese is an Italian dessert that is made from sponge cake, custard, and liqueur. It gets its name from the fact that it is similar in flavor to English trifle. Zuppa Inglese is often served as a dessert at Christmas time.
Zelten
Zelten is a traditional Italian dessert that is made with a combination of almonds, hazelnuts, cinnamon, and dried fruits. It is believed to have originated in the tyrol region of Italy and was originally made as a Christmas Eve treat. The name Zelten comes from the German word “Zelt”, which means “tent”, and refers to the fact that this dessert was traditionally made in the shape of a small tent.
Today, Zelten is still popular in Italy, particularly during the holiday season. It can be found in many bakeries and supermarkets across the country. While it is typically enjoyed as a dessert, it can also be eaten as a breakfast or snack.
Italian Desserts FAQs
What is an Italian bakery called?
A bakery in Italy is called a pasticceria. It’s where you can find Italian desserts like cannoli, tiramisu, and panna cotta.
What are Italian pastries called?
Italian Desserts are called pastries. There is a wide variety of pastries available in Italy, with something to suit every taste. The most popular choice is the Tiramisu, which is a sponge cake soaked in coffee and layered with mascarpone cheese and chocolate. Other favorites include the Pannacotta, a smooth custard pudding served with fruit sauce, and the Cannoli, a pastry filled with ricotta cheese and chocolate chips. Whatever your preference, you’re sure to find an Italian pastry that will tantalize your taste buds!
What are small Italian cakes called?
In Italy, small cakes are called “dolci.” These delicious little Treats come in many different varieties, from rich chocolate to light and airy sponge cake. No matter what your preference, there’s sure to be a dolce that will tantalize your taste buds!
If you’re looking for something truly special, try one of the classic Italian desserts like Tiramisu or Cannoli. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not go for a less well-known dolce like Pinolato or Nepoletana? Whichever one you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious taste of Italy!
Why are Italian desserts so good?
There are many reasons why Italian desserts are so good. For starters, Italians take their dessert seriously, and they put a lot of thought and care into making them. Additionally, many of the classic Italian desserts are based on simple, high-quality ingredients that taste delicious on their own. And finally, Italians have a natural flair for flavor and seasoning that really comes through in their desserts.
So if you’re looking for an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to try an Italian dessert! You won’t be disappointed.
Takeaway
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, why not try an Italian dessert? With over 65 different types to choose from, you’re sure to find something that tantalizes your taste buds. From classic tiramisu to more modern creations like Nutella-stuffed cannoli, there’s a little bit of everything when it comes to Italian desserts. So what are you waiting for? Indulge in some deliciousness today!