The Sweet Journey of the Cornetto: From History to Your Doorstep

When you think of breakfast in Italy, what comes to mind? For many, the answer is simple: a warm, flaky cornetto enjoyed alongside a creamy cappuccino. But what is the story behind this beloved Italian pastry? How did it come to symbolize the perfect start to an Italian morning? Let’s take a sweet dive into the fascinating history of the cornetto, a pastry that has captured hearts and taste buds across Italy and beyond.

The Origins: From Vienna to Italy

Although often compared to the French croissant, the origins of the cornetto are actually linked to Vienna in the late 1600s. Legend has it that the crescent-shaped pastry, known then as a kipferl, was baked to celebrate the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. This symbolic shape honored the crescent moon found on the Ottoman flags. Over time, the kipferl made its way to France and Italy, where local bakers began to put their unique twist on the recipe. While the French developed the croissant, the Italians created the cornetto, which has since become a cornerstone of Italian breakfast culture.

Cornetto vs. Croissant: What's the Difference?

While the cornetto and croissant share a similar shape, their key differences lie in the ingredients and texture. The French croissant is traditionally made with butter and flour, giving it a crispier, more layered texture.

On the other hand, the Italian cornetto uses a sweeter dough, often enriched with eggs, sugar, and sometimes lard, resulting in a softer, more delicate pastry. Another distinct feature of the cornetto is the wide variety of fillings.

While croissants are typically enjoyed plain or with a bit of butter or jam, cornetti can be filled with everything from creamy custard (crema pasticciera), chocolate, to fruit jams or even pistachio cream.

This flexibility makes the cornetto a versatile treat, perfect for those who love a sweet surprise inside their pastry.


A Staple in Italian Breakfast Culture

In Italy, breakfast is often a light meal, and the cornetto takes center stage. Whether you enjoy it at a cozy café or bring it home from your favorite bakery, the cornetto is typically paired with an espresso or cappuccino, creating a simple but satisfying start to the day. The pairing of coffee with a slightly sweet cornetto is not just about taste—it’s a daily ritual that brings a sense of comfort and tradition to the Italian lifestyle.

The Cornetto Today: From Classic to Creative

Although the traditional cornetto remains a favorite, modern bakeries have embraced creativity, experimenting with new fillings and flavors. From whole grain or vegan versions to gourmet fillings like cheese/mascarpone or hazelnut cream, there’s a cornetto for every taste.

At Andreoli, we celebrate this iconic Italian pastry by offering handcrafted cornetti, made with love and the finest ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic plain cornetto or an indulgent filled version, we are proud to bring a piece of Italian tradition to your breakfast table.

Taste Tradition with Every Bite

The cornetto is more than just a pastry—it’s a symbol of Italy’s rich culinary history and a beloved part of everyday life. As you take your first bite into one of our freshly baked cornetti, remember that you’re enjoying a tradition that dates back centuries, evolving from the streets of Vienna to the cafés of Rome. Why not add a little Italian charm to your morning? Explore our selection of freshly baked cornetti,and experience the sweet history for yourself!