The curious legends of Rome’s much-loved maritozzo.
The maritozzo is a classic sweet pastry, traditionally packed full of whipped cream, in a treat that has satisfied Romans for centuries.
The dough-based bun is typically eaten in Rome for breakfast but can also be eaten as a hefty snack, or dessert, throughout the day.
Today there are multiple variations of the tasty treat, whose origins date back to ancient Roman times, with a simple recipe of eggs, flour, honey, salt and butter.
In addition to the classic creamy variety, there are maritozzi prepared with pine nuts and raisins, or covered with chocolate, sometimes even stuffed with burrata, tomato, pesto or baccalà.
There are also gluten free or vegan versions these days.
The maritozzo gained widespread appeal in Rome in the Middle Ages as the church allowed it to be eaten during the traditional period of fasting during Lent, earning it the nickname “er Santo Maritozzo.”
As for its name, “maritozzo” is derived from “marito”, the Italian word for husband.
In the 19th century the maritozzo became central to another curious tradition: men would propose – on the first Friday of March – by presenting their future brides with an engagement ring hidden inside a maritozzo.
In recent years, Rome’s bars and restaurants pay homage to the maritozzo with the capital’s annual Maritozzo Day on the first Saturday of December.
Some of the favourite Rome venues of maritozzo connoisseurs include Regoli, Bompiani, Il Maritozzo Rosso, Romoli dal 1952, Roscioli and Casa Manfredi.
