15 Delightful Italian Candy Recipes To Try

Italian candy is a delicious reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage, offering a wide range of flavors, textures, and colors.

From silky chocolates and nutty nougats to zesty citrus confections and chewy caramels, these sweets bring a touch of Italy to any kitchen.

Making candy at home is not only a fun and creative activity but also a way to share authentic Italian flavors with family and friends.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced candy maker, these 15 Italian candy recipes are easy to follow, delightful to taste, and perfect for special occasions, gifts, or everyday indulgence.

15 Delightful Italian Candy Recipes To Try

With these 15 Italian candy recipes, you can bring the flavors of Italy directly into your kitchen.

Homemade candy is a fun and rewarding way to explore traditional Italian treats.

From creamy chocolates to nutty nougats and fruity confections, these recipes cater to every sweet craving.

Experiment with flavors, share with loved ones, and celebrate the joy of authentic Italian confectionery.

Italian candy is more than just sugar—it’s a delicious tradition that can be enjoyed and shared anytime.

Torrone Italiano (Classic Italian Nougat)

This traditional Italian nougat is a chewy and nutty candy perfect for festive occasions.

It combines honey, sugar, and egg whites with toasted almonds for a sweet, crunchy texture.

Soft and fragrant, this candy melts in your mouth and carries the authentic taste of Italy.

Making it at home allows you to enjoy a timeless confection that has been loved for generations.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar.
• 1/2 cup honey.
• 2 large egg whites.
• 1 1/2 cups toasted almonds.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• Edible rice paper (optional).

Instructions:

• Line a baking tray with edible rice paper if using.
• In a saucepan, combine honey and sugar.
• Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
• In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
• Slowly fold the hot honey-sugar mixture into the egg whites while stirring continuously.
• Add toasted almonds and vanilla extract.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared tray.
• Press gently to flatten and let cool completely.
• Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.

This torrone is chewy, nutty, and perfectly sweet.

Its rich almond flavor and soft texture make it an irresistible treat.

It’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Cantucci Toscani (Tuscan Almond Biscotti)

These crunchy almond biscuits are a classic Italian candy often enjoyed with Vin Santo wine.

Cantucci are twice-baked, giving them a crisp texture and a rich nutty flavor.
They are easy to store and perfect for snacking or gifting.

The aroma of toasted almonds and subtle sweetness makes them an iconic Italian treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour.
• 1 cup sugar.
• 2 large eggs.
• 1 tsp baking powder.
• 1 cup whole almonds.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional).

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, mix flour and baking powder.
• In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, vanilla, and almond extract.
• Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients to form a dough.
• Fold in whole almonds.
• Shape dough into two logs and place on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 25 minutes until lightly golden.
• Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
• Slice logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
• Return slices to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until crisp.

These cantucci are crunchy, sweet, and full of almond flavor.

They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or dessert wine.

Their long shelf life makes them ideal for sharing or gifting.

Baci di Cioccolato (Chocolate Hazelnut Kisses)

These decadent chocolate candies feature a creamy hazelnut filling surrounded by rich dark chocolate.

Baci are small, bite-sized treats that carry the signature Italian flavor of nuts and chocolate.

They are perfect for gifts, holidays, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving.

Making them at home ensures a fresh, indulgent experience far beyond store-bought varieties.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped.
• 1/2 cup hazelnut spread (Nutella or homemade).
• 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts.
• 1 tsp vegetable oil.

Instructions:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Melt the dark chocolate with vegetable oil over a double boiler.
• Spoon small amounts of melted chocolate onto the parchment to form disks.
• Chill briefly until firm.
• Place a small dollop of hazelnut spread on each chocolate disk.
• Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the hazelnut filling.
• Cover each with another chocolate disk, pressing gently.
• Refrigerate until completely set.
• Store in an airtight container.

These Baci are rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced between chocolate and hazelnut.

Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering nutty flavor.

They are ideal for romantic occasions or as a luxurious homemade treat.

Gelato di Mandorla Candies (Almond Gelato Fudge)

These soft almond fudge candies are inspired by traditional Italian gelato flavors.

They are rich, creamy, and delicately sweet with a pronounced almond taste.

Perfect for gifting or serving at dessert tables, these candies offer a taste of authentic Italian confectionery.

The smooth texture combined with roasted almonds creates a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream.
• 1/4 cup butter.
• 1 tsp almond extract.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped roasted almonds.

Instructions:

• Line a small baking dish with parchment paper.
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and butter.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in almond extract.
• Fold in chopped roasted almonds.
• Pour mixture into prepared dish and smooth the top.
• Let cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate briefly.
• Cut into squares and store in an airtight container.

These almond fudge candies are creamy, nutty, and lightly sweet.

Each bite offers a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with the crunch of almonds.

They are perfect for sharing with family and friends during special occasions.

Frutta Candita Italiana (Italian Candied Fruit)

Italian candied fruits are a colorful and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed year-round.

Slices of citrus, cherries, and other fruits are simmered in sugar syrup and dried to perfection.

The candy is sweet, tangy, and slightly chewy, preserving the natural fruit flavors.

They are a traditional ingredient in Italian desserts and a delightful snack on their own.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed fruit slices (orange, lemon, cherry, or pineapple).
• 1 1/2 cups sugar.
• 1 cup water.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional).

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine sugar and water to make a syrup.
• Heat until sugar dissolves completely.
• Add fruit slices and simmer gently for 30–40 minutes until fruit becomes translucent.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• Place fruit on a wire rack to dry for several hours or overnight.
• Store in an airtight container.

These Italian candied fruits are sweet, tangy, and naturally flavorful.

They make a colorful addition to desserts or a stand-alone candy treat.

Perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of espresso

Ricciarelli (Tuscan Almond Cookies)

These soft almond cookies from Siena are delicate, chewy, and slightly sweet.

They feature a combination of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, giving them a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ricciarelli are often dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy appearance.

They are perfect for festive occasions, gifts, or enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour.
• 1 cup powdered sugar.
• 2 large egg whites.
• 1 tsp almond extract.
• Powdered sugar for dusting.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
• Gradually fold in almond flour, sugar, and almond extract.
• Shape dough into small oval cookies.
• Place on a lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 15–18 minutes until slightly golden.
• Let cool and dust with powdered sugar.
• Store in an airtight container.

These Ricciarelli are chewy, nutty, and fragrant.

Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a delicate almond flavor.

They are a traditional Tuscan treat perfect for holidays or everyday indulgence.

Amaretti di Saronno (Crispy Almond Macaroons)

Amaretti cookies are crunchy on the outside and chewy inside, offering a perfect almond flavor.

These traditional Italian candies are naturally gluten-free and pair beautifully with coffee or dessert wine.

They are simple to make but deliver an authentic Italian taste.

Perfect for gifts or enjoying as a snack, these cookies are versatile and delightful.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour.
• 1 cup sugar.
• 2 large egg whites.
• 1 tsp almond extract.
• Whole almonds for topping (optional).

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Whip egg whites until soft peaks form.
• Fold in sugar, almond flour, and almond extract gently.
• Shape small balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
• Press a whole almond on top if desired.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and slightly cracked.
• Cool completely before storing.

These Amaretti are crunchy, chewy, and intensely almond-flavored.

They offer a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty aroma.

Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or as part of a dessert platter.

Gianduja Chocolates (Hazelnut Chocolate Bites)

Gianduja chocolates are rich, creamy, and packed with hazelnut flavor.

These small Italian candies blend chocolate and hazelnut paste into a smooth, luxurious treat.

They are ideal for chocolate lovers and make elegant gifts.

Making them at home ensures fresh, high-quality chocolate with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk chocolate, chopped.
• 1/2 cup hazelnut paste.
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts.
• 1 tsp vegetable oil.

Instructions:

• Melt chocolate with vegetable oil in a double boiler.
• Stir in hazelnut paste until smooth.
• Fold in chopped hazelnuts.
• Spoon mixture into small molds or paper liners.
• Chill until firm.
• Remove from molds and store in an airtight container.

These Gianduja chocolates are creamy, nutty, and indulgent.

Each bite is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced between chocolate and hazelnuts.

They are ideal for holidays, gifts, or personal indulgence.

Struffoli (Neapolitan Honey Balls)

Struffoli are small fried dough balls coated in honey and colorful sprinkles.

This festive Italian candy is traditionally made for Christmas celebrations.

Sweet, sticky, and slightly crunchy, they are irresistible to both children and adults.

Making them at home lets you enjoy the authentic flavor of Naples with ease.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour.
• 1/4 cup sugar.
• 3 large eggs.
• 2 tbsp butter, softened.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• 1/4 tsp salt.
• 1/2 cup honey.
• Colored sprinkles for decoration.

Instructions:

• Mix flour, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla, and salt to form dough.
• Roll dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
• Fry balls in hot oil until golden.
• Drain and let cool slightly.
• Heat honey in a saucepan and coat fried balls thoroughly.
• Arrange on a serving platter and decorate with sprinkles.
• Let set before serving.

These Struffoli are sweet, crunchy, and aromatic.

The honey glaze adds a sticky, delightful sweetness that is irresistible.

They are perfect for festive occasions and sharing with family and friends.

Liquirizia Caramelle (Italian Licorice Candies)

These chewy Italian licorice candies are naturally aromatic and slightly sweet.

They offer a unique flavor that combines the herbal notes of licorice root with a soft candy texture.

Perfect for candy lovers seeking something traditional and distinctive.

Homemade licorice ensures natural flavor and superior freshness compared to store-bought options.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup blackstrap molasses.
• 1/4 cup sugar.
• 1/4 cup water.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch.
• 1/2 tsp anise extract.

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine molasses, sugar, and water.
• Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
• Add cornstarch and stir until thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in anise extract.
• Pour onto a lined baking tray and let cool slightly.
• Cut into small strips or squares.
• Store in an airtight container.

These licorice candies are chewy, aromatic, and slightly sweet.

They offer a classic Italian flavor that is both nostalgic and unique.

Perfect for enjoying with coffee, tea, or sharing with friends.

Panforte Toscano (Tuscan Fruit and Nut Cake Candy)

Panforte is a dense, chewy Italian candy-like cake packed with nuts, dried fruits, and warm spices.

Traditionally served during the holidays, it has a rich, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor.

It is chewy and fragrant, with a subtle crunch from nuts and a soft chewiness from candied fruits.

Making it at home lets you enjoy a centuries-old Italian tradition.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almonds, toasted.
• 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted.
• 1/2 cup candied orange peel.
• 1/2 cup candied lemon peel.
• 1/2 cup sugar.
• 1/4 cup honey.
• 1 tsp cinnamon.
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour.
• Powdered sugar for dusting.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
• Combine nuts, candied peel, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
• In a saucepan, heat honey and sugar until dissolved.
• Pour syrup over nut and fruit mixture, stirring until well combined.
• Transfer mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes.
• Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar.
• Slice into squares or rectangles and store in an airtight container.

Panforte is sweet, chewy, and warmly spiced.

The combination of nuts, fruits, and honey creates a rich, layered flavor.

It’s perfect for festive occasions or enjoying with a cup of espresso.

Cuneesi al Rhum (Rum-Filled Chocolate Candies)

Cuneesi al Rhum are dark chocolate candies filled with a soft, rum-flavored center.

These Italian treats offer a balance of rich chocolate and a fragrant, slightly boozy filling.

They are ideal for gifting, special occasions, or savoring as a luxurious treat.

Homemade versions allow you to control sweetness and flavor intensity.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream.
• 2 tbsp sugar.
• 2 tbsp dark rum.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Instructions:

• Heat cream and sugar in a small saucepan until sugar dissolves.
• Remove from heat and stir in rum and vanilla.
• Chill until thickened enough to pipe.
• Melt chocolate in a double boiler.
• Spoon a layer of chocolate into small molds.
• Add a dollop of rum cream in the center.
• Cover with more chocolate.
• Refrigerate until firm.
• Remove from molds and store in a cool, dry place.

These Cuneesi al Rhum are rich, smooth, and indulgent.

Each bite combines the bitterness of chocolate with a sweet, aromatic rum filling.

They are perfect for celebrations or a sophisticated homemade treat.

Mostaccioli (Italian Honey-Spiced Cookies)

Mostaccioli are chewy, honey-sweetened Italian cookies spiced with cinnamon and cloves.

Often shaped into diamonds or rectangles, they are a festive treat enjoyed year-round.

The combination of honey, spices, and a slightly chewy texture makes them irresistible.

They are simple to prepare yet capture the essence of traditional Italian candy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour.
• 1/2 cup honey.
• 1/2 cup sugar.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened.
• 1 tsp cinnamon.
• 1/2 tsp cloves.
• 1 tsp baking powder.
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional).

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
• Mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.
• In another bowl, beat honey, sugar, and butter until smooth.
• Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients.
• Fold in chopped almonds if using.
• Roll dough into a log and cut into small pieces.
• Shape pieces into diamonds or rectangles.
• Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.
• Cool completely before storing.

These Mostaccioli are chewy, aromatic, and warmly spiced.

Each bite offers a subtle sweetness balanced with honey and spice.

Perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying with coffee or tea.

Tartufo Gelato (Chocolate and Hazelnut Truffles)

Tartufo Gelato are Italian chocolate and hazelnut truffles coated in cocoa powder.

They have a creamy center with a firm chocolate shell, offering a luxurious bite.

These truffles are perfect for dessert tables, gifts, or decadent snacking.

Homemade truffles are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped hazelnuts.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter.
• Cocoa powder for dusting.

Instructions:

• Heat cream in a saucepan until just simmering.
• Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
• Stir until smooth and glossy.
• Add butter and finely chopped hazelnuts.
• Chill until firm enough to scoop.
• Roll into small balls and coat in cocoa powder.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

These truffles are rich, nutty, and chocolatey.

Each bite melts smoothly in your mouth with a luxurious hazelnut flavor.

Perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying as an indulgent treat.

Gelée di Frutta Italiana (Italian Fruit Jellies)

Italian fruit jellies are soft, chewy candies made with fresh fruit juice and sugar.

They are naturally colorful, flavorful, and lightly sweet, perfect for snacking or gifting.

These candies highlight the fresh flavors of Italian fruits like citrus, berries, and cherries.

Making them at home ensures vibrant taste and natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fruit juice (orange, cherry, or lemon).
• 1/2 cup sugar.
• 2 tbsp gelatin powder.
• 1 tsp lemon juice.
• Extra sugar for coating.

Instructions:

• Sprinkle gelatin over fruit juice and let bloom for 5 minutes.
• Heat juice and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves completely.
• Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
• Pour into a lined baking dish.
• Chill until firm.
• Cut into small squares and coat with sugar.
• Store in an airtight container.

These Italian fruit jellies are soft, chewy, and naturally sweet.

Each bite bursts with fresh, fruity flavor and a lightly gelatinous texture.

They are perfect for desserts, gifts, or enjoying as a healthy sweet treat.