Buon Natale! The holiday season is all about family get-togethers, gifts and some fantastic food. But the Italian Christmas dinner table has a special spot reserved for delicious dolci! Each region has its unique recipes so there are unlimited varieties to pick from. Today, we bring to you our top 5 favourites. Read on and choose what you want to go ahead with and prepare this Natale
| Pandoro Cake Tree |
A simple, pretty and absolutely appetising recipe - Pandoro Cake Tree. A dessert so simple yet will leave your guests in awe! To prepare it, all you need is a plain or flavoured pandoro, some fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries or any fruit of your choice and cream. Now, slice the pandoro and layer it. Fill each layer with cream and decorate with fresh berries! Voila, you have your cake ready in under 15 min. We believe, it is a perfect treat to munch on while decorating that beautiful tree!
| Struffoli |
A rich treat from Neapolitan tradition and a staple on the Italian dessert table during Christmas. Add some pretty colours to your dinner table with this amazing sweet that is popular with every age group! Struffoli are little dough balls that are fried and dipped in honey and decorated with colourful sprinkles, chopped nuts, grated citrus peel and candied fruits. Preparation might take some time but it is super fun to make and can be turned into a festive family event!
| Tronchetto di Natale |
A dessert that tastes as good as it looks. This one holds a special place in European Christmas festivities, as it is connected to the ancient Yule Log burning year-end tradition. Prepared using simple ingredients, it is loaded with flavours and a fantastic treat to one’s sweet tooth. All you need to do is whisk together sugar, egg, flour, yeast, and lots of chocolate. In a few simple steps, you will be able to prepare and serve this scrumptious dolce to your close ones. The beautiful log design is sure to make a great centrepiece!
| Panforte |
Though some very interesting tales surround its origin, panforte is a loved holiday dolce in Italy. Every household has a different recipe for this dish and over years it has gone through several changes but the taste of it always remains special. Prepared using simple, everyday ingredients, all you need to prepare this Tuscany-based dolce is almond, hazelnut, candied fruit, honey, sugar, flour, cinnamon, coriander, cloves, nutmeg and powdered sugar - whip them together, bake and enjoy!
| Croccante |
A sweet snack, perfect to munch on before or after dinner! Croccante is easy to prepare and loaded with flavourful nuts. A caramelized nut bar that is Italy's winter season favourite. Prepare it in no time and store it to last the entire festive season. All you need is almond, honey, sugar, lemon + orange juice, oil and a small pinch of salt.
Even though Christmas traditions differ from one Italian region to other, the special space that dolci holds at the heart of the jolly season dinner table is the same all over! Try the above recipes and let us know which one you liked the most.
At Casinetto, we source and serve only the best products that Italy and Europe have to offer. Have a look at our Christmas Specials and Chrismas dinner collection and pick all that you need to prepare a delicious holiday season spread!
Buon Appetito
