If you’ve ever been to Italy in the morning, you’ve probably noticed people standing at café counters, sipping coffee and enjoying a golden, crescent-shaped pastry. This pastry is the cornetto, Italy’s version of the French croissant. But while they look similar, the cornetto has its own unique charm.
Soft, slightly sweet, and sometimes filled with delicious creams or jams, the cornetto is a breakfast favourite across Italy. It’s lighter than a croissant, making it perfect for a quick morning treat.
What Makes a Cornetto Different?
At first glance, a cornetto might remind you of a croissant, but the texture and flavour set it apart. Cornetti contain less butter and more sugar, giving them a softer, less flaky texture. They also have a delicate sweetness, making them a little more like a pastry roll than a rich, buttery croissant.
You can find cornetti plain (cornetto semplice) or filled with custard, jam, chocolate, or hazelnut spread. Each bite is light and airy, with just the right amount of sweetness.
When to Eat a Cornetto
In Italy, cornetti are most commonly eaten for breakfast. Italians often grab one on the way to work, pairing it with an espresso or cappuccino at a café. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to start the day.
However, cornetti aren’t just for mornings. They also make a great treat for brunch, an afternoon coffee break, or even a light dessert. If you’re hosting guests, serving cornetti with fresh fruit and coffee can create a relaxed, Italian-style breakfast spread.
What to Serve with Cornetti
The best way to enjoy a cornetto is the classic Italian way—with coffee. A cappuccino, espresso, or latte brings out the pastry’s sweetness. If you prefer something cool, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice is a refreshing option.
For an extra special breakfast, try serving cornetti with:
- Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Honey or fruit preserves for added sweetness
- A dusting of icing sugar for a touch of elegance
- A side of mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a creamy contrast
Enjoy a Taste of Italy
Cornetti brings a little taste of Italy to your morning. So next time you want something light, sweet, and delicious, why not try a cornetto?
Italian Cornetto
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 7 g yeast dry
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 200 ml warm milk
- 2 large eggs free range
- 100 g unsalted butter softened
For the Filling:
- Custard optional
- Jams optional
- Chocolate spread optional
- Hazelnut spread optional
For Dusting:
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the yeast with warm milk and 1 tbsp of sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.7 g yeast, 200 ml warm milk, 100 g sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar and salt.500 g all-purpose flour, 100 g sugar, 1 tsp salt
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, 100 g unsalted butter
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a large circle, about ½ cm thick. Cut into 12 triangular wedges.
- If using a filling, place a small amount at the wider end of each triangle. Roll from the wide end to the tip to form a crescent shape.Custard, Jams, Chocolate spread, Hazelnut spread
- Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the cornetti with the egg wash. (yolk and water whisked together).1 large egg yolk, 1 tbsp milk
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then dust with icing sugar before serving.icing sugar