Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Malta's Top Zeppoli Hotspots
Did you know that local bakeries crank out hundreds of zeppoli between January and March, particularly for St Joseph’s Day? Yes, it’s zeppoli season for us locals! Zeppoli are a cherished tradition, especially prepared as a sweet treat for the feast of St Joseph on 19 March.
These delightful pastries feature a doughy outer crust, deep-fried to perfection and filled with sweetened ricotta, blended with toasted almonds, chunks of chocolate, and delicate slices of candied peel.
Zeppoli hold a special place in Maltese culture, being the star pastry of St Joseph’s Day celebrations, a tradition inspired by Italian customs. But why are zeppoli the official pastry of this feast day? There are various theories and legends surrounding their origin, but regardless of their beginnings, we’re grateful to indulge in this delicious tradition. Whether St Joseph himself initiated the zeppoli craze or not, the tradition lives on, and we couldn’t be happier about it! If you’re craving these delectable treats, here are some of the top spots to satisfy your zeppoli cravings this season:
Busy Bee Msida, Sliema & Imrieħel
BusyBee has been whipping up Żeppoli since 1933 and trust me, they’ve nailed it! Their recipe might sound basic, but it’s all about the freshness and top-notch ingredients that set them apart. Locals can’t get enough of their Żeppoli – they’re lining up for them like it’s the hottest ticket in town. And who can blame them? Each bite is a taste of pure bliss. BusyBee doesn’t mess around when it comes to quality – only the freshest, finest stuff makes the cut. With their dedication to excellence, they churn out a whopping 25,000 zeppoli every year. Talk about commitment!
Appettitosa Concept Café, Naxxar
Get set for a foodie adventure at Appettitosa Concept Café! It’s a cool spot in Naxxar where you can find everything from pastries and ice-cream to coffee and brunch. But let’s talk about the real star of the season: their amazing zeppoli. Imagine this: yummy ricotta-filled pastries, covered in crunchy almonds. Every bite is like a flavour explosion that’ll take you straight to dessert heaven. Whether you’re popping in for a quick snack or a lazy brunch, don’t miss out on their zeppoli – they’re seriously too good to resist.
Togħma, Birkirkara & Sliema
At Togħma, they’re all about natural bakery vibes, blending classic Maltese flavours with the freshest local ingredients in super creative ways! And let me tell you, their żeppoli are out of this world.
You’ve got options, my friend:
- Traditional: Think sheep ricotta, crushed pistachio, and a drizzle of honey. Yum!
- Italian: We’re talking creamy custard paired with juicy amarena cherries. Delizioso!
- Pistachio: Indulge in pistachio custard cream topped with more crushed pistachios. It’s nutty goodness!
Trust me, whatever you choose, your taste buds are in for a treat at Togħma!
marie Patisserie, Rabat
This place is your go-to spot for all things dessert and brunch, and let me tell you, it’s fancy but oh-so-cosy. Right now, they’ve got these amazing żeppoli – they’re frying them up fresh all day long; crispy dough filled with creamy sheep’s milk ricotta, drizzled with local honey, and sprinkled with crunchy pistachios. It’s like a party in your mouth!
At Marie Boutique, they swear by one thing: it’s not just about the recipe, it’s about the heart and soul they pour into every dish.
So, if you’re in Rabat, do yourself a favour and swing by Marie Boutique Patisserie. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Cafe Elise, Marsaskala
Indulge in a taste of heaven at Cafe Elise, the ultimate waterfront oasis in the South of Malta. Whether you’re lounging indoors or soaking up the sunshine outside, this modern cafe offers the perfect ambiance to savour every moment. And when it comes to sweet treats, their ricotta-filled zeppoli, topped with crunchy pistachio nuts, steal the show. Dive into a fluffy cloud of sweetness, perfectly paired with your favourite coffee or tea – and yes, they’ve got alternate milk options too!
