Lazio is an Italian region steeped in history and tradition, and its traditional desserts, pastries and sweet treats offer a true culinary journey through its most authentic flavours. There are many typical desserts from Lazio, but some stand out as particularly well-known and cherished. Originating from ancient recipes, these treats can now also be enjoyed with modern fillings and shapes. These are our top picks of 5 must-try traditional desserts from Lazio.
Maritozzo with whipped cream
The maritozzo is a traditional leavened pastry from Rome, typically enjoyed for breakfast and traditionally filled with soft, fresh whipped cream. This classic Lazio sweet is made with simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, and eggs, making it an absolute must-try for anyone visiting Rome. Among the region’s most iconic desserts, the maritozzo has ancient origins and was traditionally eaten during Lent, when a richer meal was permitted.
Today, it is beloved not only for its history but also for its versatility—it can be enjoyed plain or filled with custard or chantilly cream. Rome is home to many historic bakeries and cafés, each claiming to serve the best maritozzo in the city. But where does the name “maritozzo” come from? Legend has it that young Roman men would offer this sweet treat to their fiancées as a token of love. Delighted with the gift, the women affectionately nicknamed their suitor “maritozzo,” meaning "little husband."
Ciambelline al vino
Ciambelline al vino are a symbol of Lazio’s confectionery tradition, particularly popular in the Frosinone area. These delicious, crumbly biscuits are made with simple, wholesome ingredients: flour, sugar, olive oil, and wine (either white or red). Perfect for any occasion, they pair beautifully with a glass of Moscato di Terracina, which enhances their delicate flavour.
The dough is kneaded until smooth and uniform, then shaped into small rings and baked until golden brown. The result is a biscuit that is crisp on the outside and slightly soft inside, enjoyable on its own or with a drink.
Tozzetti with almonds
Viterbo’s tozzetti are another classic Lazio sweet, similar to Tuscany’s cantucci. These crunchy biscuits have a rich flavour, thanks to toasted almonds (or hazelnuts) in the dough. Their origins date back to ancient times when they were traditionally prepared for Christmas celebrations. Today, tozzetti are enjoyed across the region, especially as festive treats or thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.
The recipe includes simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and almonds. The dough is shaped into logs, baked, and then sliced diagonally to create their characteristic shape. The result is a firm, crunchy biscuit, perfect for dipping into a glass of sweet wine or a cup of coffee.
Terzetti alla reatina
Originating from the city of Rieti, terzetti are known for their crunchy texture and rich flavour, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them. These biscuits are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and almonds, combined into a firm dough. Once baked, they develop a crisp and crumbly texture, perfect for enjoying with a glass of sweet wine or a coffee.
While primarily found in the province of Rieti, their reputation has spread beyond the local area thanks to their distinctive taste. The tradition of making terzetti has been passed down through generations, preserving an important part of Lazio’s culinary heritage.
La caciata
This traditional dessert, especially popular in the province of Latina, is known for its soft texture and delicate flavour, making it a favourite during festive occasions. La caciata is made with fresh, simple ingredients such as ricotta, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest, which come together to create a light and aromatic treat.
With ancient origins, la caciata is a symbol of the gastronomic culture of the Pontine region. It is particularly popular in Latina and its surrounding areas, including the historic town of Cori, one of Lazio’s oldest villages. Here, it is often served as a dessert during family celebrations and special occasions.
Where to enjoy Lazio’s traditional sweets
For those with a sweet tooth eager to explore the flavours of Lazio, the region offers a delicious journey through historic pastry shops, artisanal bakeries, and age-old confectionery traditions. A stroll through central Rome reveals treats like pangiallo and pizza dolce romana, perfect alongside a good coffee. In the Castelli Romani, you can savour crostata di visciole, often made with shortcrust pastry and ricotta, best paired with a glass of Cesanese wine.
In small towns like Civita Castellana and Caprarola, it’s worth trying pizza di Pasqua dolce, a soft, leavened Easter speciality. Further south, in the Ciociaria area near Frosinone, you’ll find pigna, a sweet bread similar to panettone, enriched with raisins and aromatic spices, traditionally prepared for Easter. Lazio is undeniably rich in culinary delights—offering a sweet experience at every turn!
And if you’re so enchanted by the region that you’d like to stay longer, here are the latest property listings on idealista:
Non-touristy things to do in Rome: everyday experiences and hidden corners
Rome gets under your skin the moment you slip down a cobbled alleyway or duck into a cool courtyard. If you’re after non-touristy things to do in Rome, think slow mornings at neighbourhood markets, sunset viewpoints with locals, and late‑night gelato far from the hubbub. It’s the city of chalkboard trattorie, hidden gardens and curious little museums at an easy pace - an everyday Rome that still feels special.
Lesser‑known landmarks in Rome: unusual attractions and quirky museums
Slip beyond the blockbuster sights and you’ll find Rome’s unusual attractions tucked into cloisters, courtyards and catacombs. Think keyholes framing domes, layered churches and private palazzi with quietly dazzling art. Lesser‑known landmarks in Rome and quirky little museums that reward an unhurried wander give you a taste of the best non-touristy things to do in Rome, when in Rome...
What to skip in Venice and smarter alternatives
Venice casts a spell—bells over the water, light on stone—but the crush around San Marco and Rialto can drown out the everyday rhythm. A simple skip-and-swap mindset helps get a little closer to the non-touristy things you can do in Venice. Explore at dawn or after 8 pm, rather than midday, and mid-week or shoulder seasons, instead of peak weekends. Quiet calli (narrow lanes), a quick Grand Canal hop by traghetto, chalkboard osterie on back streets, and independent Murano studios keep things
Non-touristy things to do in Venice: local spots and quiet islands
Beyond the queues and gondola jams, Venice hides quiet little courtyards called campielli, neighbourhood taverns, or bàcari, and workaday islands where daily life moves at an easier pace. If you’re after non‑touristy things to do in Venice, think lagoon‑side strolls, tasty cicchetti at the counter, and craft workshops far from the main drag.
Lake Braies, Italy: where it is, how to get there and what to see
Lake Braies (Lago di Braies), also known as the Pragser Wildsee in German, is one of the most famous lakes in the Dolomites and a must-see destination in northern Italy. With its turquoise waters framed by forests and the UNESCO-listed Braies Dolomites, this Alpine lake attracts visitors in every season.
Living in Mussomeli: life in Sicily's famous 1 euro town
Deep in the heart of Sicily's Caltanissetta province is Mussomeli. The town’s famous 1 euro houses scheme has made the idea of living in Mussomeli a tempting prospect for people across the world. But what daily life is actually like in this corner of Sicily involves more than just a headline-grabbing price tag. Life here is rooted in a traditional, close-knit community of around 10,000 people, which comes with all the challenges and rewards of rural Italian life.
Non-touristy things to do in Verona: quirks and quiet corners
Verona is in northern Italy’s Veneto region, with the Adige River flowing right through its centre. While it's often linked to Shakespeare’s famous couple, the city's character is really shaped by its grand Roman amphitheatre and winding medieval lanes. Exploring beyond these well-known sights reveals plenty of non-touristy things to do in Verona.