Ever since we discovered this dessert…
We have been on Pasticciotto Patrol
Southern Italy has a bounty of amazing and unusual desserts- but the Pasticciotto was born in a pastry shop in Galatina in 1875. The pasticciotto is a small oval shaped pastry made from short crust and filled with pastry cream. The perfect Italian-style pastry breakfast with your Cappuccino, Espresso, or Tea.
In beautiful ‘Storico Centro’ Galatina ( ‘Little Lecce’ )
21k or 34 minutes from Lecce
The pastry store, Pasticceria Ascalone started it all when practical Nicola didn’t have enough materials to make a full size cake, he fashioned some mini cakes, and filled them with left over custard. The mini cakes were delicious- and loved. They flew off the shelves, and became an icon of the area. This beautiful Pasticceria still stands and thrives with the 11th generation (300 years later)- and still serves Pasticciotto Magnifica.
Make Pasticciotto yourself- Here’s a recipe
While they may be offered in many locations- don’t be swayed…
We call them ‘Imposter’cciottos. Get the real deal right here in Galatina!
Other Baked Goods- Galatina is more than Pasticciotto
Why are Puglia Baked Goods so amazing?
High quality of ingredients
Puglia is known for its excellent local produce, including olives, almonds, figs, and citrus fruits, which are often used in traditional Puglian pastries. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients helps to create delicious and authentic flavors in the pasties.
Italians don’t eat a large traditional breakfast – they love pastries
Breakfast in Italy is typically a lighter meal compared to lunch or dinner, and pastries are a popular choice that can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or cappuccino.
Rich culinary tradition of Puglia
Puglia has a long history of baking and pastry-making, and this tradition has been passed down through generations. Many Puglian pastry shops use traditional recipes that have been perfected over time, resulting in pastries that are both delicious and culturally significant.
Puglia is a popular tourist destination
Pastry shops in the region often cater to a diverse range of customers, including locals and tourists. This has helped to create a vibrant and competitive pastry scene in Puglia, with pastry shops constantly striving to innovate and improve their offerings.
Make it your mission to find these delicious pastries on your journey
1. Pasticiotto – A baked pastry filled with a creamy custard-like filling, typical of the Salento region.
2. Cartellate – Thin sheets of dough fried and then coated in honey and almonds.
3. Friselle – Dry bread rounds that are rehydrated with water or olive oil and topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and salt.
4. Taralli – Savory biscuits made with white wine and olive oil and typically flavored with fennel seeds.
5. Pasticciotto leccese – A variation of the pasticiotto filled with ricotta cheese and a hint of lemon zest.
6. Spongata – A sweet and spicy pastry filled with nuts, honey, and dried fruit.
7. Pettole – Fried dough balls that are typically eaten during Christmas celebrations.
8. Tiella di Gaeta – A savory pie filled with tomatoes, olives, and anchovies.
9. Bocconotto – Small pastries filled with jam or chocolate and often dusted with powdered sugar.
10. Panzerotti – Fried turnovers filled with cheese, tomatoes, and other savory ingredients.
