If you are a fan of Italian pastries and you were dreaming of a festive break in Tuscany, then we highly recommend browsing our villas in Siena. Not only is this charming and well-preserved historic gem exceptionally pretty at this time of the year with Christmas decorations, lights, and cheer in abundance, but it is also where many of the region’s most beloved festive treats were born.
Siena is a perfect festive foodie option that is particularly well-known for her pastries made using recipes that have been passed down for generations upon generations. For those with a sweet tooth, it is the perfect destination this Christmas! So, if you have booked your vacation rental in Siena and are headed to the nearest bakery, these are some of the unmissable seasonal treats that you should try:
Cavallucci
Meaning “little horses”, cavallucci date all the way back to the 15th century and were originally imprinted with the image of a horse. They are thought to have been either consumed by travellers, postal workers, or servants working in stables according to various accounts – all adding to this connection to horses. The modern iteration has been gentrified and altered and cavallucci are now made from flour, anise, sugar, coriander, candied fruit, walnuts, and Tuscan millefiori honey, which lends a chewy quality. In the shape of half an apricot, they can be found widely while on holiday in Siena around Christmas.
Ricciarelli
Another biscuit, ricciarelli are more delicate, macaroon-like, with a crisp bite, and are lozenge-shaped. Even older than cavallucci, they date back to the 14th century and there are various origin tales but the most popular iteration suggests that Ricciardetto della Gherardesca brought the sweets back with him from the Crusades. Made with an almond base as well as sugar, honey, and egg white, ricciarelli are then dusted in icing sugar or covered in dark chocolate.
Panforte
Panforte is similar to a fruitcake made from nuts, fruit, honey, sugar, and various spices. Akin to lebkuchen or Florentines in consistency but thicker, it is available throughout Italy but is thought to have originated from Siena. Meaning, “strong bread,” due to its spicy flavour, it dates back to at least the 13th century and documentation from the beginning of the century has been found of the treat being donated to monks and nuns as a tithe. Found in bakeries throughout Siena, each has their own closely guarded recipe so there are a wide variety to choose from during your vacation in Siena.
Panpepato
Another similar Senese fruitcake is the panpepato, a more rustic dessert with a strong flavour and a long list of spices, nuts, and fruits including pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, zest of orange and lemon, walnuts, almonds, pine nuts, and hazelnuts. It is finished off by being covered in a layer of chocolate. Panpepato also has both origins going back to the Middle Ages and a strong tradition of family recipes, meaning that you’ll rarely taste the exact same kind twice.
Vin Santo
Not just a Senese favourite but a dessert wine found all throughout Tuscany, Vin Santo is often served and paired with these kinds of biscuits and cakes after a meal to finish things off properly, the Tuscan way. For a seriously hearty and indulgent treat, it is a must with Senese desserts.
So, if you are planning a holiday in Siena over the Holidays and you want to engage with local traditions and customs over the festive period or if you are a foodie looking to sample some seasonal fare, be sure to check out the town’s bakeries and stores for these classic Christmas desserts!
