The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a dream for dessert lovers too. From lemon-infused pastries to centuries-old treats passed down through generations, this region of Italy offers a delightful lineup of sweets that capture the essence of Campania’s coastal charm.
As a travel photographer (and dessert enthusiast), I’ve tasted my way through bakeries, beach cafés, and hidden patisseries to bring you this ultimate guide to the top 10 desserts to try on the Amalfi Coast.
1. Delizia al Limone
What It Is: A soft sponge cake filled and topped with lemon cream, typically flavored with Amalfi’s famous sfusato lemons.
📍 Try It At: Sal De Riso, Minori
🍋 Why You’ll Love It: Light, creamy, and perfectly citrusy—this dessert is the Amalfi Coast in a bite.
Tip: Pair it with a limoncello for the full lemon experience.
2. Torta Caprese
What It Is: A rich, flourless chocolate and almond cake named after the island of Capri.
📍 Try It At: Pasticceria Pansa, Amalfi
🍫 Why You’ll Love It: Dense, moist, and gluten-free by tradition. The balance of chocolate and nuts is divine.
Tip: Best served with a dollop of whipped cream or gelato.
3. Sfogliatella Riccia
What It Is: A crunchy, layered pastry filled with sweetened ricotta and semolina, often with candied orange peel.
📍 Try It At: Bar Pasticceria Savoia, Positano
🥐 Why You’ll Love It: The crisp outer layers contrast beautifully with the warm, creamy filling.
Tip: Eat it warm. This is a perfect morning pastry.
4. Pastiera Napoletana
What It Is: A traditional Easter tart made from wheat berries, ricotta, orange blossom water, and candied fruit.
📍 Try It At: Pasticceria Andrea Pansa, Amalfi
🌼 Why You’ll Love It: Fragrant, slightly chewy, and comforting—this is a taste of Neapolitan tradition.
Tip: Try it in spring, when it’s most fresh and widely available.
5. Baba al Limoncello
What It Is: A soft, yeasty cake soaked in limoncello (instead of the traditional rum).
📍 Try It At: La Zagara, Positano
🍰 Why You’ll Love It: Boozy, bright, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
Tip: Eat with a spoon—the syrup makes it wonderfully messy.
6. Gelato al Limone
What It Is: Lemon gelato made with fresh Amalfi lemons.
📍 Try It At: Gelateria David, Sorrento
🍦 Why You’ll Love It: Refreshing and tart—perfect for cooling off during coastal strolls.
Tip: Ask for it in a brioche bun for a Sicilian-style twist.
7. Cannoli
What It Is: Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta, often with pistachios or chocolate chips.
📍 Try It At: Il Ritrovo, Montepertuso
🌰 Why You’ll Love It: Crisp, creamy, and endlessly customizable.
Tip: Try one with lemon-zest ricotta for a local spin.
8. Granita al Limone
What It Is: A semi-frozen dessert made from lemon juice, water, and sugar—like a grown-up slushie.
📍 Try It At: Café Mirante, Praiano
🥶 Why You’ll Love It: Tart and icy—perfect during hot Amalfi afternoons.
Tip: Spoon it over fresh fruit for a refreshing breakfast treat.
9. Ricotta e Pera Cake
What It Is: Sponge cake layered with sweet ricotta and pear cream.
📍 Try It At: Pasticceria Gambardella, Minori
🍐 Why You’ll Love It: Subtle and creamy with just the right sweetness.
Tip: Pairs beautifully with an espresso.
10. Crostata di Marmellata di Limoni
What It Is: A lemon marmalade tart made with buttery shortcrust pastry.
📍 Try It At: Antico Forno, Ravello
🥧 Why You’ll Love It: Rustic, tangy, and full of citrus sunshine.
Tip: Look for versions made with house-made marmalade.
FAQs: Desserts on the Amalfi Coast
What dessert is the Amalfi Coast most famous for?
Delizia al Limone, thanks to the region’s prized lemons.
Can I find gluten-free desserts on the Amalfi Coast?
Yes! Torta Caprese is naturally gluten-free.
Are the desserts very sweet?
Generally balanced—many desserts use citrus or nuts to offset sweetness.
Where can I learn to make Amalfi Coast desserts?
Many cooking schools in Sorrento and Amalfi offer dessert classes.
Are there vegan options for desserts?
Fruit-based treats like granita or certain sorbets are vegan-friendly.
More Sweet Inspiration for Your Trip
- Italy’s Traditional Pastries – Eater
- Sal De Riso Official Website
- How Limoncello Is Made – The Spruce Eats
- Capri’s Torta Caprese – History & Recipe
- Cooking Classes in Amalfi