Bergamasque desserts tell the story of a land to be savored with the heart, one that is both rustic and refined at the same time. Behind every recipe lies a story, a character, a tradition tied to the territory, or a childhood memory. In this article, you will discover the sweet delicacies of the Bergamo tradition: from the famous Torta Donizetti to the curious Polenta e Osei, from San Pellegrino Bigio cookies to corn and walnut cakes. These desserts are the perfect ending to a family meal or a stroll along the walls of Città Alta. At our Pasticceria Bigio, we also prepare these specialties every day using family recipes, so you can taste the true flavors of Bergamo!
Torta Donizetti
The Torta Donizetti is the most iconic dessert of Bergamo, created in honor of the great composer Gaetano Donizetti. Light and fluffy, delicately scented with Maraschino, this cake is enriched with candied apricots and pineapple. Legend has it that it was invented by the chef of the Grand Hotel to commemorate the anniversary of the musician’s death. Today, it is a symbol of the city’s pastry tradition, perfect with an afternoon tea or for breakfast.
Torta del Donizettiano
The Torta del Donizettiano is a more elaborate version of the classic cake, newer but still connected to the maestro’s name. Rich in nuts, honey, and spiced aromas, it was created to celebrate Bergamo’s cultural and gastronomic pride. It is often served during musical events or days dedicated to the composer. A true treat for those who love fragrant and intense desserts.
Polenta e Osei
Polenta e Osei is perhaps the most famous of Bergamasque desserts. But beware: it’s not real polenta! This dessert mimics its shape, covered with a layer of yellow marzipan, filled with sponge cake, chocolate or butter cream, and decorated with small sugar or chocolate birds. A sweet imitation that celebrates peasant cuisine and surprises those who don’t know it. Perfect as a souvenir to take home, although it’s hard to resist before the journey back!
Corn and Walnut Cake
The corn and walnut cake tells the story of simple life in the Bergamo countryside. Made with corn flour, sugar, eggs, and local walnuts, this soft and rustic cake was—and still is—mainly prepared in the colder months, when nuts are an important source of energy. A slice of history to enjoy with a good sweet wine or a steaming cup of coffee.
San Pellegrino Bigio Biscuits
Originating from San Pellegrino Terme, Bigio biscuits are crescent-shaped delights, perfect with coffee or liqueur. At our Pasticceria Bigio, we prepare them daily following the original 1934 recipe, using good butter and carefully selected ingredients. A cookie that carries almost a century of tradition and the authentic taste of Bergamo.
The Sweet Tradition of Bergamo
Bergamasque desserts are witnesses to a culture that values simplicity, memory, and authentic flavor. At Pasticceria Bigio, we prepare these specialties every day with the same care and passion as always.
Come visit us to taste our Bigio cookies, a slice of Torta Donizetti, or your own personal discovery among the flavors of Bergamo. We await you with the aroma of freshly baked sweets and the warmth of a genuine welcome.
Taste Bigio biscuits at our historic pastry shop in San Pellegrino Terme.
