Celebrate Easter with Authentic Italian Colomba

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  • April 4, 2025

Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! It’s time to indulge in some of the most exquisite Easter treats of the season, and in Italy, that means embracing the delicious Colomba di Pasqua. This traditional Italian dessert is not just about chocolate eggs; it’s a celebration of sweet leavened bread that embodies the spirit of Easter.

Discover the Colomba: The Iconic Easter Dove Cake

The Colomba, which translates to “Easter dove” in English, is a delightful cake shaped like a dove, symbolising peace and hope. Unlike the classic panettone, which is filled with raisins, the Colomba typically features candied orange peel for a refreshing citrus flavour. Perfect for any spring gathering, this artisanal Easter cake is a must-try for those seeking a taste of Italy.

Where to Buy the Best Italian Easter Cakes Online

With many Italian bakeries offering international delivery, you can enjoy a slice of Italy this Easter. Here are some of the finest options for purchasing your Easter dove cake online:

Trattoria Contemporanea Colomba

Celebrate Easter with a unique twist at Michelin-starred Trattoria Contemporanea. Their Apricot Colomba (€40) is a fragrant, fruit-forward delight that combines candied apricots with orange, lemon, and Madagascar bourbon vanilla notes. Topped with a golden amaretto glaze and a sprinkle of sugar, this sweet, leavened bread is a vibrant expression of springtime. This cake is a fantastic Easter treat, available for purchase at the restaurant or through their official e-shop.

Trattoria Contemporanea Colomba
Photo credit: Trattoria Contemporanea

Martesana Colomba

Martesana has been perfecting the art of crafting Colomba in its artisanal bakery for decades. They use only the finest ingredients, including fresh Italian eggs and butter and one of Milan’s oldest sourdough starters. Their Easter lineup features timeless classics like the Colomba Tradizionale and innovative flavours such as Red Berries & almonds, Figs with Saffron Rice & Walnuts, and the aromatic Tris Agrumi Italiani. This year, you can collect your Colomba online and at their brand-new shop in Lake Como.

Martesana Colomba
Photo credit: Martesana

Gucci Colomba

The most fashionable Colomba of the season, Gucci Osteria’s limited-edition creation is a luxurious twist on the classic Easter treat. Priced at €70, it comes in an elegant tin designed by Gucci, making it a stylish gift as well as a delightful dessert. The dough is enriched with hand-cut yuzu and bergamot, merging Italian tradition with Japanese citrus for a refined flavour profile. Available in-person at Gucci Osteria Firenze or through their online shop, this cake is perfect for those who appreciate both Italian pastry craftsmanship and design.

Gucci Colomba
Photo credit: Osteria Gucci

Cracco Colomba

Carlo Cracco, one of Italy’s most celebrated chefs and a former judge on MasterChef Italia, brings his signature elegance to Easter with a refined selection of artisanal treats. In addition to his Colomba (1kg, from €45), Cracco crafts luxurious chocolate eggs, including a dark chocolate option made with 61% cacao, perfect for those who enjoy intense flavours. Each egg brings a sweet surprise, making it an exciting addition to any Easter gift box. Cracco’s flavours include traditional chocolate and pistachio, each celebrating Italian pastry tradition.

Cracco Colomba
Photo credit: Cracco

Marchesi Colomba

Founded in 1824, Marchesi is a renowned Milanese pasticceria offering a selection of Colomba and chocolate Easter eggs. Their Colomba comes in various sizes (1kg, 2kg, and 3kg), with prices starting from €48. For a truly special treat, consider their Easter gift box, which includes the classic Marchesi 1824 Colomba, a 25-piece pack of chocolate cru eggs, four coloured eggs, and a jar of dark hazelnut cream. This sophisticated combination of traditional Italian treats is perfect for any celebration.

Marchesi Colomba
Photo credit: Marchesi 1824

Colomba for a Cause from Cometa

If you wish to enjoy a Colomba while supporting a worthwhile cause, look no further than Cometa. By purchasing a Colomba from this organisation, you can help young people in need. Each cake is crafted with the finest ingredients and baked to perfection, making it a delightful Easter treat and a means of aiding the local Lake Como community. Your purchase helps support Cometa’s fantastic work, providing opportunities for young people facing challenging circumstances.

Colomba Cometa
Photo credit: Cometa

Indulge in a Sweet Italian Easter

This Easter, treat yourself and your loved ones to the exceptional flavours of Colomba. Whether you opt for a traditional version or a modern twist, these artisanal Easter cakes will surely make your celebrations memorable. Explore these Italian bakeries and enjoy the best of springtime desserts, bringing a taste of Italy to your Easter festivities.


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