Italian desserts are renowned for their rich flavors, velvety textures, and stunning presentation. From classic tiramisu to innovative gelato flavors, Italy’s sweet treats have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. In this collection of 20 decadent Italian dessert recipes, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the country’s beloved sweets.
Whether you’re a fan of creamy mascarpone, rich chocolate, or fruity gelato, there’s something for everyone in this delicious array of desserts. From traditional treats like cannoli and panna cotta to creative twists like panettone bread pudding and semifreddo with espresso, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of Italian desserts, exploring the rich history and cultural significance behind each treat. We’ll also provide you with step-by-step instructions for preparing each dessert, so you can easily recreate these indulgent treats at home.
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy custards, crispy biscotti, and velvety chocolate truffles. Whether you’re an Italian food enthusiast or just looking for new dessert inspiration, this collection of 20 decadent Italian dessert recipes is sure to delight your taste buds.
Classic Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream
Classic Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this timeless dessert, featuring creamy mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled coffee and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. To assemble the tiramisu, start by creating a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
6. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Cannoli Filled with Ricotta and Chocolate Chips
Experience the classic combination of creamy ricotta cheese and rich chocolate chips wrapped up in crispy cannoli shells. This recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips until well combined.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the ricotta-chocolate mixture, mounding slightly at the top.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (assembling only)
Enjoy your delicious Cannoli Filled with Ricotta and Chocolate Chips!
Homemade Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
Transform your taste buds with this simple yet elegant dessert featuring creamy panna cotta and a sweet berry compote. Perfect for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
5. For the compote, combine berries, sugar, honey, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juices and sugar dissolves.
6. Serve chilled panna cotta with warm berry compote spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (compote only)
Authentic Italian Gelato in Three Flavors
Authentic Italian Gelato: A Taste of Tradition
Gelato is Italy’s beloved frozen treat, characterized by its rich flavors and smooth texture. This recipe brings you three classic gelato flavors that showcase the best of Italy: Hazelnut, Pistachio, and Stracciatella.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts (for Hazelnut gelato)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (for Pistachio gelato)
– 1 cup chocolate chips (for Stracciatella gelato)
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F (77°C to 82°C).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. For each flavor: Blend cooled mixture with respective nuts or chocolate chips in a blender or food processor until smooth.
5. Pour the mixtures into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus churning time)
Enjoy your authentic Italian gelato!
Lemon Ricotta Cake with a Citrus Glaze
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the zesty goodness of lemons and the creaminess of ricotta. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for springtime gatherings or whenever you need a burst of citrusy joy.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Budino with Whipped Cream
This Italian-inspired dessert is a decadent treat that combines the flavors of rich chocolate, nutty hazelnuts, and creamy whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter until melted.
4. Add whole milk and dark chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and melted.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving with whipped cream (see below).
Whipped Cream:
1. Beat heavy cream in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Zeppole Di San Giuseppe (Italian Cream Puffs)
Zeppole Di San Giuseppe (Italian Cream Puffs)
These tender, sweet cream puffs are a traditional Italian dessert, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. With a light and airy dough and a rich filling of sweetened whipped cream, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Filling ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Pipe dough onto prepared baking sheet in 1-inch circles.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.
7. Allow puffs to cool completely before filling with whipped cream mixture (heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract).
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Affogato al Caffè with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic Italian dessert, where rich espresso pours over creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the scoop of vanilla bean ice cream in a chilled glass or cup.
2. Pour the shot of espresso over the ice cream, allowing it to flow and mix slightly with the creamy texture.
3. If desired, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar over the top.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Panettone Bread Pudding with Amaretto Sauce
This Italian-inspired dessert combines the sweetness of panettone bread pudding with the nutty flavor of amaretto sauce, perfect for a festive holiday treat.
Ingredients:
For the bread pudding:
– 2 cups cubed panettone bread
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the amaretto sauce:
– 1/2 cup amaretto liqueur
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the cubed panettone bread and mix until well coated.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and mix until the bread is fully soaked.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For the amaretto sauce, whisk together the liqueur, heavy cream, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
7. Serve the warm bread pudding with the chilled amaretto sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes for the bread pudding, 10-15 minutes to chill the amaretto sauce
Amaretti Cookies with Almond Flour
These crispy, chewy cookies are a staple of Italian cuisine, made with the richness of almond flour and a touch of citrus. Perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, these amaretti cookies are a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) almond flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 large egg white
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add orange zest and orange juice; whisk until smooth.
4. Beat in egg white until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Torta Caprese (Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake)
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this decadent torta caprese, a flourless chocolate almond cake that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) sliced almonds
– Sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Melt butter and cocoa powder in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Add melted chocolate mixture to egg mixture; stir until smooth.
5. Fold in almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zabaglione with Fresh Seasonal Fruits
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Italian treat, infused with the sweetness of fresh seasonal fruits. This creamy zabaglione is a perfect canvas for showcasing the flavors of summer’s ripest bounty.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur (optional)
– Fresh seasonal fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, peaches, or raspberries), sliced
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until well combined.
2. Add heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in Grand Marnier, if using.
5. Spoon warm zabaglione into serving glasses or ramekins.
6. Top with sliced fresh fruits and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ciambella (Italian Bundt Cake) with Lemon Zest
This classic Italian Bundt cake, known as Ciambella, gets a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon zest. The result is a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) Bundt pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Biscotti di Prato with Pistachios and Cranberries
Biscotti di Prato, a classic Italian cookie, gets a delightful twist with the addition of crunchy pistachios and tart cranberries. This recipe yields a deliciously chewy and crispy biscuit perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in pistachios and cranberries.
6. Divide dough into 2 portions and shape each into a log about 12 inches long.
7. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between them.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Semifreddo with Espresso and Dark Chocolate
Combine the richness of espresso and dark chocolate with the lightness of whipped cream, and you’ll have a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress. This semifreddo recipe is perfect for those who love mocha flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, espresso powder, and salt until dissolved.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the espresso mixture until well combined.
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
6. Pour the semifreddo into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4-24 hours (depending on desired set time)
Struffoli (Honey-Coated Fried Dough Balls)
These sweet treats are a traditional Italian Christmas dessert, perfect for any festive gathering or special occasion. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these honey-coated dough balls are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
– Honey (for coating)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, lard, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Cut off small pieces of dough and roll into balls.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Fry the dough balls for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and coat with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes per batch
Pandoro Veronese (Golden Christmas Cake)
In Italy, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a traditional Pandoro Veronese, a sweet and fragrant golden cake that’s a staple of the holiday season. This recipe is a classic take on this beloved Italian treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan or Bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crema Catalana with a Caramelized Sugar Crust
Experience the classic Spanish dessert, Crema Catalana, elevated by a caramelized sugar crust. This rich and creamy custard is sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine egg yolks, sugar, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour the custard into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Just before serving, caramelize sugar by sprinkling a thin layer over each ramekin. Caramelize under broiler for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta Cheesecake with Amarena Cherries
This creamy cheesecake is infused with the sweetness of ricotta cheese and the tanginess of amarena cherries, creating a unique and scrumptious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup amarena cherries, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat ricotta cheese until smooth. Add cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
5. Arrange amarena cherries on top of the cheesecake.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dark Chocolate Salami with Pistachios and Cookies
This indulgent treat combines the richness of dark chocolate with the crunch of pistachios and the sweetness of cookies, creating a unique and irresistible salami-like snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup (30g) crushed cookies (e.g., wafers or sandwich cookies)
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped pistachios and crushed cookies.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface or a silicone mat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required, as this treat is best served chilled.
Summary
Indulge in the sweetness of Italy with these 20 decadent dessert recipes! From classic Tiramisu to homemade Panna Cotta, authentic Italian Gelato, and more, this collection has something for every sweet tooth. Discover unique treats like Chocolate Hazelnut Budino, Zeppole Di San Giuseppe (Italian Cream Puffs), and Struffoli (Honey-Coated Fried Dough Balls). Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a simple treat to satisfy your cravings, these irresistible Italian desserts are sure to delight.
