1. Bacio pantesco
An iconic symbol of Pantelleria’s sweetness, the Bacio Pantesco has ancient roots that reflect the island’s cultural ties with Tunisia. Made with traditional iron molds, this dessert consists of two crispy fried batter wafers that “kiss,” enclosing a sweet ricotta cream. A true Bacio Pantesco should be crisp to the bite, while the fresh ricotta inside adds softness and a refreshing contrast. Best enjoyed freshly made, it releases its full aroma between the crunch of the shell and the sweetness of the cream that gently envelops the palate.
2. Spinci di San Martino
In November, during the feast of San Martino, the island fills with the scent of spinci — small balls of fried dough, dipped in honey and dusted with cinnamon. Soft and fragrant, they offer a burst of sweetness in every bite. Traditionally prepared to celebrate the end of the harvest and the arrival of winter, spinci are a warm, festive ritual that brings families and friends together around fragrant, joy-filled tables.
3. Mustazzoli
During the Christmas season, Pantelleria fills with the spiced aroma of mustazzoli. These dry, chewy treats of Tunisian origin are made with a rich dough of honey, toasted almonds, semolina, orange essence, mandarin peel and cinnamon. After baking, they’re cut into bite-sized pieces and wrapped in a thin white glaze. Perfect paired with a glass of Passito wine, they celebrate winter with bold, warming flavours.
4. Easter Cassatelle
At Easter, Pantelleria’s tables are filled with sweetness thanks to cassatelle. These pastries are made with a thin yet firm dough—similar to that of mustazzoli but richer—filled with fresh ricotta or custard cream. Baked in the oven, cassatelle reveal a soft, comforting centre, a symbol of springtime renewal and abundance.
5. Pantescan Pasticciotti
Between summer and autumn comes the season of Pantescan pasticciotti — small shortcrust pastry shells filled with grape or orange jam, irresistible from the very first bite. Simple yet full of character, these sweets reflect the island’s farming soul and the wisdom of those who know how to preserve its precious harvests.
Want to truly taste the island?
Follow the scents rising from ancient ovens, step into hidden pastry shops tucked among the dammusi, and give in to the tempting flavours of tradition.
Here, every dessert is more than just a taste—it’s an emotion.
Curious to discover all the local specialties worth trying in Pantelleria?
We recommend reading: What to eat in Pantelleria: 5 traditional dishes of pantescan cuisine.
Content created with the contribution of Marco Ruggeri