Ever since we discovered this dessert…
We have been on Pasticciotto Patrol
Southern Italy has a bounty of amazing and unusual desserts- but the Pasticciotto was born in a pastry shop in Galatina in 1875. The pasticciotto is a small oval shaped pastry made from short crust and filled with pastry cream. The perfect Italian-style pastry breakfast with your Cappuccino, Espresso, or Tea.
In beautiful ‘Storico Centro’ Galatina ( ‘Little Lecce’ )
21k or 34 minutes from Lecce
The pastry store, Pasticceria Ascalone started it all when practical Nicola didn’t have enough materials to make a full size cake, he fashioned some mini cakes, and filled them with left over custard. The mini cakes were delicious- and loved. They flew off the shelves, and became an icon of the area. This beautiful Pasticceria still stands and thrives with the 11th generation (300 years later)- and still serves Pasticciotto Magnifica.
Make Pasticciotto yourself- Here’s a recipe
While they may be offered in many locations- don’t be swayed…
We call them ‘Imposter’cciottos. Get the real deal right here in Galatina!
Other Baked Goods- Galatina is more than Pasticciotto
Why are Puglia Baked Goods so amazing?
High quality of ingredients
Puglia is known for its excellent local produce, including olives, almonds, figs, and citrus fruits, which are often used in traditional Puglian pastries. The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients helps to create delicious and authentic flavors in the pasties.
Italians don’t eat a large traditional breakfast – they love pastries
Breakfast in Italy is typically a lighter meal compared to lunch or dinner, and pastries are a popular choice that can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or cappuccino.
Rich culinary tradition of Puglia
Puglia has a long history of baking and pastry-making, and this tradition has been passed down through generations. Many Puglian pastry shops use traditional recipes that have been perfected over time, resulting in pastries that are both delicious and culturally significant.
Puglia is a popular tourist destination
Pastry shops in the region often cater to a diverse range of customers, including locals and tourists. This has helped to create a vibrant and competitive pastry scene in Puglia, with pastry shops constantly striving to innovate and improve their offerings.
FAQs on Pasticciotto
Where is the best pasticciotto in Galatina?
Start where it was invented: Pasticceria Ascalone, the family shop that’s been making them since the beginning and still serves its Pasticciotto Magnifica. Then do your own patrol — Galatina’s pasticcerie each have loyal followings, and half the fun is comparing. Our rule: if it’s not from Galatina, it’s an “Imposter”cciotto.
How much does a pasticciotto cost?
About €1 to €1.50 each — one of Italy’s great edible bargains. At that price there’s no reason not to try two: one classic custard, one chocolate or amarena cherry for comparison.
Can I learn to make pasticciotto in Galatina?
Yes — several pasticcerie and local cooking schools offer hands-on pastry classes where you’ll make the short-crust shell, the crema pasticcera, and assemble your own. Book ahead, especially in spring and summer. It’s the souvenir that actually teaches you something.
What else should I do in Galatina besides eat pasticciotti?
Plenty. The Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria — the “Sistine Chapel of Southern Italy” — is the headline act, with its extraordinary 14th-century frescoes. Then there’s the tiny Chapel of San Paolo, tied to the tarantella legend, and one of the prettiest baroque old towns in Salento to wander between tastings.
How do I get to Galatina from Lecce?
Galatina, or ‘Little Lecce’ is about 21 km — roughly 25 minutes by car or around half an hour by regional train. Easy enough for a morning trip: arrive, eat pasticciotti for breakfast the way locals do, see the basilica, and be back in Lecce for lunch.
Is there a pasticciotto festival in Galatina?
Galatina celebrates its signature pastry with dedicated events through the year honoring the pasticciotto — tastings, competitions, and bakery open doors. Dates move around, so check with the Galatina tourist office or local listings before you plan a trip around it.
The Patron Saint of Salento?
Where should I stay in Galatina?
Learn more about Gorgeous Galatina
Puglia has fabulous food festivals and events throughout 2027
Make it your mission to find these delicious pastries on your journey
1. Pasticiotto – A baked pastry filled with a creamy custard-like filling, typical of the Salento region.
2. Cartellate – Thin sheets of dough fried and then coated in honey and almonds.
3. Friselle – Dry bread rounds that are rehydrated with water or olive oil and topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and salt.
4. Taralli – Savory biscuits made with white wine and olive oil and typically flavored with fennel seeds.
5. Pasticciotto leccese – A variation of the pasticiotto filled with ricotta cheese and a hint of lemon zest.
6. Spongata – A sweet and spicy pastry filled with nuts, honey, and dried fruit.
7. Pettole – Fried dough balls that are typically eaten during Christmas celebrations.
8. Tiella di Gaeta – A savory pie filled with tomatoes, olives, and anchovies.
9. Bocconotto – Small pastries filled with jam or chocolate and often dusted with powdered sugar.
10. Panzerotti – Fried turnovers filled with cheese, tomatoes, and other savory ingredients.
