Discover Italy’s Crispy Curves of Puff Pastry: Ventaglio
Italy’s ventaglio, a crispy, sugar-crusted puff pastry treat, is a beloved delight for both young and old. Found in coffee bars and pastry shops across the country, these delectable pastries come in various sizes and are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon coffee break.
Join Foodie Sisters, Valeria and Benedetta, as they visit one of Rome’s best bakeries to sample this delicious pastry and uncover the secrets to making the perfect ventaglio.
What is a Ventaglio?
A ventaglio, which translates to ‘fan‘ in English, is a delightful pastry that lies somewhere between a cookie and a puff pastry. The name reflects its distinctive curved shape, achieved by folding sugar-sprinkled strips of puff pastry onto themselves. When baked, the pastry puffs up, creating flaky, buttery layers with a crispy, caramelized exterior.
Making the perfect ventaglio requires precision, especially when it comes to baking time. Underbaking results in soggy layers, while overbaking can cause the caramelized edges to become bitter.
The Origins of Ventaglio
Despite its popularity in Italy, the ventaglio recipe actually originated in France. French pastry chefs devised it as a clever way to use up leftover dough, a method that was soon adopted by various countries, each giving the pastry a unique name. The French call them palmiers (palm leaves) or cœurs (hearts), in England they are known as ‘elephant ears’ or ‘butterflies,’ and in Italy, they are sometimes referred to as prussiane. Regardless of the name, these pastries are easily recognized by their distinctive shape and delightful taste.
How to Enjoy Ventaglio
Ventagli can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Their sweet, crispy texture pairs perfectly with a morning coffee, making them an excellent breakfast choice. They also serve as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat with an afternoon espresso. The simplicity and elegance of ventagli make them a versatile addition to any occasion.
Join Our Community
For more authentic and traditional Italian experiences, join our Community Casa Local Aromas and immerse yourself in the true essence of Italy.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and check out our food and wine tours and cooking classes in Rome, Florence, and Venice!