All about zeppole di San Giuseppe
Mark your calendars—the unmissable San Giuseppe celebrations are just around the corner!
It’s no secret that San Giuseppe is a yearly highlight for Italian communities all over the world… and for whoever loves a good zeppola! It’s the perfect occasion to soak up the culture, with a pillowy doughnut in hand.
In Italy, Father’s Day is celebrated on March 19th instead of the third Sunday of June, to coincide with the religious holiday honouring Saint Joseph, patron saint of the family. All over the boot, people take a break and indulge in eating a few (or many!) zeppole.
Sometimes fried, sometimes baked, these traditional doughnuts also come in different shapes and flavours depending on the region. They can even sometimes have a different name, such as bignè, sfinge or crispelli. But the classic Neapolitan version that still gets our hearts racing can be recognized by its use of choux pastry and the addition of a creamy filling.
Want to discover this popular dessert and join in on the fun? Here are our favourite local spots for authentic, delicious zeppole.
Gema Pizzeria in Montreal’s Little Italy.
Fresh zeppole are served on March 19th only. But you have to move fast, because it’s first come, first served!
Pasticceria Alati-Caserta, also in Little Italy.
This mythical bakery offers a vast array of zeppole during the few days surrounding San Giuseppe.
Café San Gennaro, in the same Montreal neighbourhood.
On top of their usual bomboloni and other sweet delicacies, in March this popular spot also serves the famous zeppole.
Morena grocery store in Quebec City.
This family owned favourite is always worth a visit, but even more so in March when zeppole are proudly displayed.
And if you’re looking to get your hands a little dirty and summon the (choux) pastry chef that lies within, we’ve got the perfect homemade zeppole recipe for you. Without giving away all our secrets just yet, we can already tell you that our hazelnut cocoa spread makes a dazzling appearance!
Find the recipe here.
Happy San Giuseppe and enjoy your zeppole!
