Tuscan Chestnut Cake (Castagnaccio): A rustic Italian Christmas dessert

This Tuscan chestnut cake, or castagnaccio, is a rustic Italian dessert made with chestnut flour, pine nuts and rosemary. Naturally egg- and dairy-free, it’s perfect for Christmas or winter gatherings. Castagnaccio is one of Tuscany’s most distinctive desserts. Made from chestnut flour rather than wheat, it’s dark, dense and gently savoury, enriched with olive oil […]

Filled Mini Panettoni

These filled mini panettoni are a charming twist on the classic Italian Christmas cake, with a rich mascarpone centre and bursts of candied peel. Perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the scent of panettone drifting through the kitchen at Christmastime. These miniature versions capture all the warmth of […]

The new Dec/Jan 2026 issue of Italia! magazine is on sale now!

The new issue of Italia! is out now – and it’s a festive treat! Celebrate Christmas Italian-style with our guide to a magical Florence, an inspiring interview with chef Sophie Grigson in Puglia, and a look at the remarkable winemakers of Gorgona. Enjoy Joe Gartman’s final Fast Culture feature, our Christmas Gift Guide packed with […]

Gnocchi with Pumpkin, Gorgonzola, Pancetta & Honey

This pumpkin and gorgonzola gnocchi is pure Italian comfort food, with crisp pancetta and a drizzle of honey. It’s a perfect meal for chilly evenings. Sweet pumpkin, creamy gorgonzola and crisp pancetta are a match made in Italian heaven, and when paired with pillowy gnocchi, they create a dish that feels both rustic and luxurious. […]

The Oct/Nov issue of Italia! is out now!

Welcome to the new issue of Italia! magazine packed with inspiring features to transport you to Italy.  We begin in Liguria and the captivating Riviera di Ponente, with historic seaside towns and medieval villages. Bologna beckons next as we learn how this venerable city is embracing change, then off the beaten track to western Sardinia, a land of ancient stone dwellings, deserted landscapes […]

12 best Italian dessert recipes for a taste of ‘la dolce vita’

Discover the best Italian dessert recipes. From creamy panna cotta to fruity ricotta cheesecake, they’ll bring sweetness to any occasion. Craving something sweet? These irresistible Italian dessert recipes have it all – creamy, fruity, and festive favourites you’ll want to make on repeat. When it comes to indulgent yet elegant sweet treats, few cuisines do […]

3 Italian dolci recipes for gifts and special occasions

Join Mario Matassa for a look at the delights of Italian dolci to recreate in your kitchen Featured photo © Irving Sandoval/Adobe Stock Words and recipe photos by Mario Matassa  There can be nothing more evocative and comforting than the wafting aromas of freshly baked biscuits and cakes. Bound up in childhood memories of hearth […]