Maritozzo: Italy's Beloved Cream-Filled Pastry

Name: Maritozzo: A Sweet Treat from the Heart of Italy
Prep time: 150 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Yield: 7
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Icing sugar for dusting; 4 cups of all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup of granulated sugar; 15 grams of fresh yeast; 1 cup of lukewarm water; 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter; 3/4 cups of whipped cream; 1 pinch of salt; 1 zest of orange

Dive into the world of Italian pastries with our comprehensive guide to Maritozzo. Learn how to make this sweet, cream-filled bun at home and explore its rich history.

Italian Cuisine

June 14, 2023

Difficulty Medium

Servings 6-8 people

Preparation 150 mins

Cooking 15 mins

Total 165 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

4 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of granulated sugar
15 grams of fresh yeast
1 cup of lukewarm water
1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter
3/4 cups of whipped cream
1 pinch of salt
1 zest of orange
Icing sugar for dusting

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and orange zest.
Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing continuously until a dough forms.
Add the softened butter to the dough and knead until it's fully incorporated.
Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into an oval bun.
Place the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover them with a cloth, and let them rise for another hour.
Preheat the oven to 180 °C (356 °F) and bake the buns for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're golden brown.
Once the buns have cooled, slice them open without cutting all the way through.
Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks, and fill each bun with a generous amount of cream.
Dust the Maritozzi with icing sugar before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Maritozzo: A Sweet Treat from the Heart of Italy

Serves 6-8

Amount Per Serving

Calories239

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 6.6 g8.5%

Cholesterol 19 mg6.3%

Sodium 43 mg1.9%

Protein 4.5 g9%

Potassium 59 mg1.3%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Use lukewarm water or milk. Bring the ingredients to room temperature for optimal yeast activation.
Use fresh and active yeast. Dissolve the yeast in warm milk or water with a pinch of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to be used.
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This provides a light and airy texture in the baked Maritozzo.
Allow enough time for the dough to rise and double in size during the proofing process. This can take around 1-2 hours, depending on the temperature of the kitchen. Ensure that the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area to aid in the rising process. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and elastic. If it is too dry, add a small amount of water or milk. Conversely, if it's too wet, add a little more flour gradually.
Shape the rolls correctly. When shaping the Maritozzo rolls, form them into oval shapes with tapered ends. Roll the dough gently, ensuring a smooth and even surface. Tuck the ends underneath to create a distinctive shape.
Don't overbake. Keep a close eye on the rolls while baking to prevent them from becoming too dark or dry. Once they turn golden brown on the outside, remove from the oven.
While traditional whipped cream is a classic choice, you can use Nutella, jams, fruit curds, or even savory options like prosciutto and cheese.
Enjoy it fresh. Maritozzo is best enjoyed on the day it is made, when it is at its freshest and most flavorful.

Rate This Recipe

Maritozzo is a traditional Italian pastry that has been warming hearts and satisfying sweet cravings for centuries. Originating from Rome, this delightful bun filled with fresh whipped cream is a breakfast staple in many Italian homes and a must-try for any pastry enthusiast. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of making your own Maritozzo at home, delve into its fascinating history, and answer some common questions about this beloved Italian treat.

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

Mixing Bowls

Stand Mixer

Grater

Baking Set

What Is Maritozzo?

The Maritozzo is more than just a sweet bun; it's a piece of Italian history. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, when it was traditionally baked during Lent as a sweet, leavened bread. The name "Maritozzo" comes from the word "marito" (husband), as these buns were often given by women to their betrothed as a symbol of love. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the Maritozzo we know and love today, filled with fresh whipped cream, became a staple in Roman bakeries.

Maritozzi (Italian Sweet Buns) are not just a treat for the palate but also for the eyes. Its golden crust contrasts beautifully with the white cream, making it a delightful addition to any breakfast table or pastry display. The hint of orange zest in the dough adds a subtle citrus note that balances the sweetness of the cream, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors that is characteristic of Italian pastries.

Despite its rich history and traditional recipe, the Maritozzo is a versatile pastry that lends itself to various interpretations. Some modern versions include fillings like Nutella or fruit jam, while others experiment with the dough, adding ingredients like cocoa powder for a chocolate version. The possibilities are endless, and that's the beauty of baking at home-you can make your Maritozzo just the way you like it.

Can I Use A Different Filling For My Maritozzo?

Absolutely! While whipped cream is the traditional filling, you can experiment with other fillings like Nutella, fruit jam, or even custard.

Can I Make Maritozzo without Yeast?

Yeast is essential for the dough to rise and achieve its characteristic fluffy texture. However, if you're out of yeast, you can use baking powder as a substitute, although the texture and taste might slightly differ.

What To Serve with Maritozzo?

Maritozzo (Italian Sweet Buns) is a traditional Italian sweet bread roll that is typically served as breakfast or dessert. It is usually topped with whipped cream, although there are variations made in other fillings such as Nutella or jam. While maritozzo is delicious on its own, you can enhance your serving options by serving it with complementary foods or drinks.

Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Maritozzo:

Can I Make Maritozzo Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the buns ahead of time. Store them in the fridge overnight, and when you're ready to bake, let them come to room temperature before popping them in the oven.

Maritozzo is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you're having it for breakfast with a cup of coffee, as a midday snack, or as a dessert after a meal, its sweet, creamy goodness is sure to brighten your day. So why not give this recipe a try and bring a taste of Italy into your home?

Recipe byPetite Gourmets