10 Italian Baked Goods You Can Make with Few Ingredients

Italian baked goods are renowned for their rich flavors and textures, often evoking the warmth of Italian kitchens. The best part? Many traditional recipes require just a handful of ingredients, allowing you to whip up delicious treats without a long list of items. Here’s a look at 10 Italian baked goods you can easily make with few ingredients.

1. Focaccia

Focaccia is a beloved Italian flatbread that requires minimal ingredients: flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. This versatile bread can be enjoyed on its own or topped with herbs, tomatoes, or olives for added flavor. Simply mix the ingredients, let it rise, and bake!

2. Cantucci

Cantucci, also known as biscotti, are twice-baked almond cookies. With only flour, sugar, eggs, and almonds, these crunchy treats are perfect for dipping in coffee or dessert wine. Form the dough into logs, bake, slice, and bake again for that perfect crunch.

3. Torta della Nonna

This delicious custard tart, meaning "Grandmother’s Cake," typically consists of flour, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, and lemon zest. The crust is easy to prepare, and the filling creates a creamy, tangy taste that pays homage to traditional Italian home cooking.

4. Ciabatta Bread

Ciabatta is a rustic Italian bread that's known for its airy texture and crisp crust. With just flour, water, salt, and yeast, you can create this iconic bread. Let the dough rise overnight for the best flavor and texture, then shape and bake for a delightful loaf.

5. Panna Cotta

Panna cotta, while not baked, is an essential Italian dessert that requires few ingredients: cream, sugar, and gelatin. This silky-smooth delicacy can be flavored with vanilla or fruit and is a beautiful addition to any meal.

6. Zeppole

Zeppole are Italian doughnuts that can be made with flour, eggs, milk, sugar, and baking powder. Fried to golden perfection, these treats can be dusted with powdered sugar or filled with cream for an indulgent dessert.

7. Ricotta Cookies

Ricotta cookies are soft, cake-like cookies that utilize ricotta cheese, flour, sugar, eggs, and baking soda. These cookies are incredibly easy to make and can be flavored with lemon or almond extract for a unique twist.

8. Pan di Spagna

This classic sponge cake requires just flour, sugar, and eggs. Known for its light, airy texture, Pan di Spagna serves as a base for many Italian desserts, including layered cakes and trifles. Whip the eggs and sugar until fluffy, gently fold in the flour, and bake for an impressive treat.

9. Pizza Bianca

Pizza Bianca, or white pizza, is a simple and delicious alternative to traditional pizza. Utilizing just flour, water, yeast, and salt, this bread can be topped with rosemary, garlic, or any number of fresh ingredients. It's perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer.

10. Castel del Monte Cookies

These delightful cookies are made with just four ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest. Known for their crumbly texture and refreshing citrus flavor, Castel del Monte cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

Italian baked goods are not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress and bring the taste of Italy into your home.