

1. Maritozzo: The Soft Roman Classic
Where to try it: Il Maritozzo Rosso (Trastevere)
Five Roman Desserts You Must Try, To begin with, the Maritozzo is one of Rome’s most traditional sweet treats. It’s a soft brioche bun filled with panna, a lightly whipped, not-too-sweet cream. Although the original version remains the favorite, you’ll now find pistachio and hazelnut variations too.
For the best experience, head to Il Maritozzo Rosso, the most famous spot dedicated to this iconic pastry. Their classic cream-filled maritozzo truly reflects the spirit of Sweet Rome Must-Try.
📍 Viale di Trastevere, 179
2. Ricotta & Sour Cherry Crostata: A Slice of History
Where to try it: Pasticceria Boccione (Jewish Ghetto)
Next,in our Five Roman Desserts You Must, Try the ricotta and cherry crostata brings history straight to your plate. Its slightly burnt-looking crust might seem like a mistake, but it hides a fascinating story.
In the 16th century, when selling dairy products was forbidden, Jewish bakers hid ricotta under a darkened crust to avoid detection. Today, the most authentic version is found at Pasticceria Boccione, a legendary bakery with centuries of tradition.
This unforgettable crostata is another highlight of Sweet Rome Must-Try.
📍 Via del Portico d’Ottavia, 1
3. Panna Cotta: Creamy and Timeless
Where to try it: Osteria der Belli (Trastevere)
Five Roman Desserts You Must Try, After that, we arrive at the wonderfully simple yet elegant panna cotta. Its name means “cooked cream,” and even though it comes from the north of Italy, it’s now a staple in Rome.
At Osteria der Belli, you can enjoy one of the creamiest and smoothest panna cottas in the city—never too sweet, always perfectly balanced. Without question, this dessert earns its place in your Sweet Rome Must-Try adventure.
📍 Piazza di Sant’Apollonia, 11
4. Gelato: The Real Italian Experience
Where to try it: Gelateria del Teatro (Centro Storico)
Now, let’s continue with the world-famous Italian gelato. Roman gelato is known for its creamy texture and intense flavors. However, remember this essential tip: avoid shops with brightly colored gelato piled high like mountains.
For true quality, visit Gelateria del Teatro, where flavors are natural, seasonal, and stored in covered containers. It’s one of the best stops to fully enjoy the essence of Sweet Rome Must-Try.
📍 Via dei Coronari, 65
5. Tiramisu: Italy’s Most Beloved Dessert
Where to try it: Two Sizes (Piazza Navona area)
Five Roman Desserts You Must Try, finally, we end with the dessert that conquered the world: tiramisu. With coffee-soaked biscuits, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder, it strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and intensity.
For one of the best versions in Rome, visit Two Sizes, famous for its fresh tiramisu in multiple flavors—classic, pistachio, caramel, and more. It’s the perfect final chapter in your Sweet Rome Must-Try food journey.
📍 Via del Governo Vecchio, 88
Useful External Resources
For further exploration, here are four helpful links:
- Italian Tourism Official Portal — https://www.italia.it
- Rome Tourism Board — https://www.turismoroma.it
- Italian Food & Traditions — https://www.eataly.com
- Gelato Culture & History — https://www.gelatouniversity.com
