The traditional sweets of the Venice Carnival have a long history that has made them famous all over the world. These delicacies, symbols of Venetian culinary tradition, are enjoyed by both tourists and locals, becoming the absolute protagonists of the carnival period. Among the most famous are the Venetian fritters, the true queens of this celebration. The “fritoe venexiane” boast a recipe that has been passed down through generations, and, together with the castagnole, they are a must-try for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the authentic flavors of the Carnival.

The fritters are fried dough balls available in many variations. Some are filled with custard, others with zabaione or chocolate, but the most traditional ones are simply enriched with raisins and pine nuts. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they melt in your mouth, leaving a sugary and spiced aftertaste that evokes the ancient Venetian festivities.

Another typical sweet of this period is the galani, known in other regions of Italy as “chiacchiere” or “crostoli.” Their history dates back to Roman times, when they were prepared for the Saturnalia, celebrations dedicated to the god Saturn, which correspond to the modern-day Carnival period. These thin, crispy, and flaky pastries are fried and then dusted with powdered sugar. Their delicate flavor and lightness make them perfect for indulging in large quantities during the celebrations.

Despite their ancient origins, these sweets continue to play a central role in the Venice Carnival, carrying forward centuries-old traditions and flavors that have spanned the ages. The Venetian carnival sweets are not just food, but a true cultural heritage that encapsulates the joy and spirit of one of the world’s oldest and most beloved festivals.

Today, bakeries and pastry shops throughout Venice start producing these traditional sweets as soon as the carnival season begins, and the aroma that fills the Venetian streets is unmistakable. Tasting a fritter or a galano during the Carnival is an experience that takes you back in time, offering a taste of history and tradition with every bite.