Indulge in the sweet taste of Rome without leaving your kitchen! Roman cookie recipes have a unique charm that will transport you to the city of seven hills, even if you can’t physically be there. These authentic treats boast a blend of traditional Italian baking and modern flair, making them a perfect treat for any sweets lover. What sets these cookies apart is their use of distinct ingredients like pistachio nuts, almond slivers, and aniseed.
You might find similar treats in Italian bakeries or gourmet shops, but there’s no substitute for the joy of baking something yourself. With just a few simple ingredients and some inspiration from the internet, you can create these classic desserts at home. We’ve curated a selection of the best Roman cookie recipes to help you get started on your baking adventure. From classic favorites like biscotti to modern twists like red velvet pizzelle, there’s something for everyone.
And if you’re looking for something a little more unique, #9’s walnut and hazelnut cookies are sure to hit the spot. Bookmark this page and discover the best Roman cookie recipes at your fingertips.
Best Roman Cookie Recipes
Biscotti
The sweet union of almonds, butter, and sugar is always a recipe for success. This beloved biscotti recipe perfectly balances these flavors in a crunchy, twice-baked cookie that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. While traditional pairings might suggest dipping the biscotti in a dessert wine, I find that it pairs just as well with a rich and creamy cup of hot cocoa – a kid-friendly twist that’s perfect for all ages.
To bring this tasty treat to life, you’ll need a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, butter, almond slivers, and eggs.
Brutti Ma Buoni (Ugly But Good)
While its unassuming name may not do justice to the cookie’s true nature, this classic Italian treat is a true delight. Despite their small size, lumpy texture, and pale color, these cookies pack a punch when it comes to flavor. In fact, they’re essentially meringue cookies that have been elevated to new heights with their delectable taste.
The ingredients at play here include egg whites, vanilla extract, sugar, sea salt, and hazelnuts, all of which come together to create a truly exceptional treat.
Amaretti Cookies
Italians have a special fondness for these deceptively simple cookies, which may appear dry on the surface but pack an extraordinary flavor punch. Despite their unassuming appearance, they’re actually a masterclass in texture, boasting a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, yielding interior that makes them equally suitable as a snack or dessert.
Among the many advantages of these almond-based treats is their ease of preparation – simply combine almond flour, egg whites, almond extract, sugar, and lemon zest to create a delightful confection.
Pignoli Cookies
When it comes to cookies, there’s often a disconnect between appearance and taste. But for Pignoli cookies, this phenomenon is taken to the next level. The combination of crunchy pine nuts and unique flavors makes them impossible to resist. The satisfying crunch and distinct flavor profile set these cookies apart from others.
What’s more, the ingredients that come together to create this delight include almond flour, almond extract, pine nuts, granulated sugar, and egg whites – a mix that promises an unforgettable treat.
Ricciarelli
Ricciarelli, a traditional Italian cookie, requires dedication to craft perfectly. The payoff is well worth the effort, as these delicate treats offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
When I think of Ricciarelli, I’m reminded of macaroons – the soft, chewy center surrounded by a crispy exterior. However, Ricciarelli’s unique charm lies in its subtle nuances: a hint of tanginess from the lemon juice and the warm, citrusy undertones of orange zest.
The ingredients that come together to create this delightful cookie include almond flour, egg whites, sugar, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The result is a sweet and satisfying treat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Anisette Cookies
Anise’s polarizing appeal often sparks strong opinions. For those who can’t get enough of its distinctive flavor, this recipe is a treat. The cookies boast a satisfying crunch and the unmistakable licorice undertones that make them truly one-of-a-kind. If you’re an anise enthusiast, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. The ingredient list includes all-purpose flour, milk, vegetable oil, anise extract, and sugar – everything you need to bring this unique flavor combination to life.
Almond Croccante
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of this almond brittle cookie recipe, boasting an unparalleled crunch and subtle nutty flavor. Unlike traditional cookies, these thin treats are a game-changer for those seeking a satisfying snack. To achieve the perfect crunchy texture, it’s essential to heat the sugar carefully – a small mistake can result in burnt sugar, which would be a shame.
The combination of almonds, granulated sugar, and a hint of lemon creates a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.
Sfogliatelle
The sfogliatelle’s visually stunning appearance is a masterclass in clam-shell-shaped perfection. Its golden-brown exterior exudes the elegance of a pastry, rather than a cookie. However, it’s only once you take a bite that the true magic unfolds. The harmonious balance of crunchy dough and sweet ricotta filling will leave you craving more.
This delightful treat is crafted with a combination of ingredients including honey, ricotta, semolina flour, cinnamon, and candied orange peel, all working in perfect harmony to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ciambelline Al Vino
Indulge in the decadent delight of boozy cookies, expertly crafted with subtle sweetness and a hint of rich red wine. The soft, thick cookie has a delightful chewy texture that will leave you craving more. But the magic happens when you dunk these indulgent treats into a glass of fine red wine. As the flavors meld together, you’ll find yourself transported to a state of sweet satisfaction.
To create this masterpiece, simply combine all-purpose flour, red wine, olive oil, baking powder, and sugar in a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds singing.
Taralli
In Italy, the ring-shaped cookie is a beloved snack that has stood the test of time. Its unique texture and flavor profile set it apart from other sweet treats. While it’s undeniably delicious, this cookie’s sweetness level is carefully balanced, making it a perfect pick-me-up any time of day. What makes this cookie even more appealing is its simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can whip up the dough and store it in the freezer for future cravings.
When you do decide to indulge, you’ll be happy to know that the process is quick and easy. The core ingredients at play here are all-purpose flour, sugar, olive oil, milk, and salt. These humble components come together to create a truly special treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Red Velvet Pizelle
Indulge in the irresistible charm of these vibrant red waffle cookies, which are truly one-of-a-kind. The moment you lay eyes on them, you’ll be craving a whole plateful – the presentation is simply irresistible. But it’s not just their appearance that sets them apart; when it comes to taste, these treats will transport your palate to a world of possibilities.
Just imagine the crispy, waffle-inspired texture merging with the rich, velvety smoothness of red velvet cake, all in one delicious cookie. And at the heart of this culinary magic are simple yet essential ingredients: all-purpose flour, eggs, butter, vanilla, and cocoa powder.
Pizzicati
Pizzicati cookies are renowned for their unique preparation method, requiring a gentle pinch to shape them before baking. This distinctive process yields a delightful combination of textures and flavors. With a velvety smooth filling of jam nestled in the center and an satisfying crunch on the outside, Pizzicati cookies offer a tantalizing treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.
The ingredients used to craft these delectable treats include a rich butter, cornstarch for added structure, granulated sugar for sweetness, eggs for moisture, and of course, a generous helping of jam as the crowning glory.
Baci Di Dama
The simplicity of these sandwich cookies belies their enduring appeal. The harmonious union of two hazelnut-flavored rounds, bound together by a rich semisweet chocolate center, creates a sweet treat that consistently satisfies the cravings of those with a taste for something sugary.
At its core, this classic cookie is all about balance and contrast – the nutty flavor of hazelnuts provides a delightful counterpoint to the deep, velvety chocolate.
And with just six ingredients – including ground hazelnuts, butter, sugar, flour, and semisweet chocolate – it’s clear that these cookies are meant to be enjoyed by everyone.
The bottom line
Rome, a city renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, boasts an impressive array of cookies that cater to every palate. From sweet treats to savory bites, the Eternal City’s cookie repertoire is as vast as its historical landmarks.
