Decadent Desserts to Discover in Sicily

"Leave the gun. Take the Cannoli" is wise quote from the classic movie ‘The Godfather’. These words take on a whole new significance when you chose to rent one of the gorgeous Sicily villas found on this stunning island. With its rich agriculture (they grow almonds, lemons, oranges, pistachios, grapes and olives) the island is the source of Italy’s finest and most varied cuisine. However, in the world of dessert making, the Sicilians are in a league of their own. There are at least three delectable treats you must try while on holiday here.

Cannoli

The best way to freely explore the variety of cuisines available is by renting independent accommodation in Sicily. Villas dotted around the island allow you to come and go as you please, which makes tracking down the island's most famous desserts a fun and exciting experience. The first one that must be sampled would have to be the famous cannolo. This crispy and delicate tube of pastry is filled with an exquisitely sweetened, creamy fresh ricotta mixture. Your cannoli can be customized with candied fruit, chopped pistachios or bits of chocolate.

Cassata Siciliana

This traditional cake of the island is truly a labour of love. Time and meticulous effort goes into creating the liqueur-soaked sponge cake, which is then layered with creamy, sweetened ricotta, and blended with a medley of candied fruit or chocolate bits. The cake is then covered in a green coloured almond paste followed by a sugar icing. This masterpiece is lovingly decorated with more icing and a colourful array of candied cherries, oranges and other fruits. Cassata Siciliana is truly a work of art created by the local bakers. What could be more idyllic than enjoying a slice of exquisitely made Cassata Siciliana from the comfort of your own beautiful veranda, watching the sun set over the Mediterranean in Sicily? Villas in spectacular locations make this a wonderful reality.

Marzipan

In Sicily, villas can be rented near many of the small villages and towns where this delightful treat is created. This is one of the island's most delicate and beautifully crafted desserts. Sicilians are master craftsmen in the use of marzipan and its simplicity can only be described as ingenious. Pureed almonds are blended with cinnamon, vanilla and sugar then melted into a paste. The resulting malleable paste is then manipulated into creations with exquisite features. Miniature fruits and vegetables are lovingly enhanced with intricate details such as sugar-spun peach fuzz, paper stems and vibrant colours. It is almost a shame to even contemplate biting into one of these masterpieces, but the sumptuous taste experience is well worth it.

A holiday of relaxation, fun and excitement can easily be found in Sicily. Villas provide a home away from home with added luxuries such as swimming pools and stunning views. Let your sweet tooth be your guide on a tour of the island's playful and exquisitely decadent world of handcrafted sweets.

Looking for your perfect home away from home in Italy? Mark Slaviero is a Director of Holiday Homes in Italy, a company specialising in finding the holiday home, villa or apartment of your dreams. For the ideal Sicily villas and accommodation in Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Lakes, ski resorts and more, we offer the best in every region.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.