The Sweetest Treats to Try in Rome Beyond Gelato

Rome may be famous for its gelato, but the city’s dessert scene has so much more than what meets the eye! From pastries to chocolates, let’s explore the sweetest places to eat in Rome.

Rome’s desserts are a feast for the senses, with a variety of regional delicacies that capture the essence of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. While gelato often takes center stage, other traditional sweets like cantucci (almond cookies) and crostata (fruit tarts) are equally worthy of attention. In a city where dining is an art, these Dolci reflect centuries of gastronomic culture, offering a perfect ending to any meal. Whether enjoyed with an espresso or as a standalone indulgence, these desserts in Rome embody the spirit of Edesia, the Roman goddess of feasting, and should not be missed on a visit to the Eternal City.

Vin Santo e Cantucci is a delightful Tuscan dessert that has found its way onto Roman tables, offering a perfect post-meal indulgence. Vin Santo, a rich wine, is paired with cantucci, crunchy almond biscotti. The ritual is simple but divine: Soak the Santucci in the Vin Santo until both are finished and then order more to continue the indulgence. While this combination originates in Tuscany, its irresistible charm has made it a favorite across Italy, especially when shared after a hearty meal.

Crostata Ricotta e Visciole is a quintessential Roman dessert, with its roots in Jewish Roman cuisine. This variation of the classic crostata combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the tartness of visciole cherries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and slightly tangy flavors. The addition of chocolate chips in some versions only enhances the indulgence. It's a beloved staple in Roman restaurants, and one of the best places to enjoy it is at Flavio Al Velavevodetto in the Testaccio neighborhood.

Frappe is a delicious, seasonal treat enjoyed across Italy during the Carnival period, typically from January to just before Easter. Made from a simple mixture of egg, sugar, and flour, these light, crispy bites are deep-fried to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey. Known by different names in various regions—like bugie in Liguria, meaning "lies" due to their airy texture—frappe trace their origins back to ancient Roman sweets prepared for the same festive season. You can find them in two variations: fried or baked, each with its own devoted fanbase. Often flavored with a splash of alcohol such as sambuca or vin santo, frappe is a must-try indulgence during Carnival, though don't let their lightness fool you—they're more calorie-packed than they appear!

The Tiramisu at Flavio al Velavevodetto, an iconic Roman osteria, is a must-try for dessert lovers in Rome. Known as tiramisu al cucchiaio, it’s exceptionally soft and velvety, perfect for scooping with a spoon. To experience the full depth of flavors, be sure to gather several layers with each spoonful, letting the delicate balance of tastes unfold in every bite. This isn’t just any tiramisu; it’s an unforgettable classic that deserves a place on every food lover's list.

Chestnuts, or Castagne, among beloved seasonal things to eat in Rome, are often enjoyed as a dessert in their various forms. While some may question whether chestnuts truly count as dessert, the answer is a resounding yes. Roasted chestnuts, sold by vendors on every corner of the street that you turn to, during late autumn and early winter, offer a simple yet satisfying indulgence. For a sweeter experience, try marron glacé, candied chestnuts that melt in your mouth. The smell of roasting chestnuts wafts through the air, particularly around Via del Babuino leading to Piazza di Spagna, evoking the festive spirit of Christmas in Rome.

Cannoli are a perfect Sicilian dessert, and while they're a must-try when visiting Sicily, you can find them in traditional shops throughout Italy. These crispy, tube-shaped shells are filled with a rich ricotta cream filling, often topped with a cherry or other delightful additions. The greatest bakeries take great care to fill the shells with ricotta only when you order, ensuring that the shell stays perfectly crisp. To elevate the experience, some versions of cannoli are topped with chocolate chips, pistachios, and candied fruits adding extra layers of flavor and texture. No matter what your choice is, cannoli are always a delicious indulgence!

Panettone is a beloved Italian Christmas dessert that has become so popular that you can now find it year-round. Originally from Milan, this fluffy round loaf is typically filled with raisins and citrus peels, offering a light yet flavorful treat. Its delicate, fluffy inside and festive ingredients have made it a staple during the holiday season.

Sfogliatelle is a beloved pastry of Naples, known for its irresistibly flaky texture and unique shape. Made from multiple layers of wafer-thin dough, it's filled with a sweet mixture of semolina, ricotta, and candied citrus peel, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. You can find these delicious treats in many bakeries throughout Naples, where they typically cost between one and two euros. Sfogliatelle are often enjoyed for breakfast as a food in Rome, Italy, making them the perfect indulgence to start your day with a sweet touch. A great excuse to treat yourself right from the morning!