The Sweet Story of Mustaccioli Cookies
Mustaccioli cookies are one of our best sellers even though most people are not familiar with them. It’s fun to watch a customer’s face light up with surprised delight when they try a sample. While they’re often served in Italy as a Christmas treat, we make them year round because they’re that good.
Let’s start with the question we’re asked most often, “How do you say that”?
What Are Mustaccioli Cookies?
Mustaccioli cookies, often diamond-shaped (we make ours round or hexagonal) and coated in a shiny chocolate glaze, are known for their dense, spiced flavor and slightly chewy texture. Typically made with honey, almonds, and a variety of spices, Mustaccioli cookies are a holiday favorite, especially around Christmas. Their name is thought to derive from the Latin word “mustaceum,” referring to cakes made with grape must, an ingredient often included in ancient recipes.
Where Do They Come From?
The origins of Mustaccioli trace back to Southern Italy, where they are most commonly associated with regions like Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. These cookies have been a staple in Italian households for centuries, with recipes passed down through generations. While variations of the recipe exist across Italy, they all share a commonality in their use of warm spices, honey, and nuts, reflecting the Mediterranean’s historical trade routes and cultural exchanges.
Regional Differences
In Campania, particularly around Naples, Mustaccioli are known as "Mostaccioli" and are traditionally made with a rich chocolate glaze and anise-flavored dough. Sicilian Mustaccioli, which is the style we make, include citrus zest and almonds, showcasing the island’s rich agricultural produce and Arab-influenced flavors. In Calabria, the cookies may incorporate wine or grape must, harking back to their ancient roots.
As Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, Mustaccioli cookies evolved to suit new palates and ingredients. In the United States, these cookies are often sweeter, with recipes sometimes including additional chocolate in the dough itself or substituting honey with sugar or molasses. Some American bakers also experiment with different glazes, such as white chocolate or colorful icing, to make them more festive.
While the base ingredients remain similar, these regional nuances highlight the adaptability of Mustaccioli recipes to local tastes and available ingredients.
Historical Influences
The history of Mustaccioli is deeply intertwined with the cultural and trade influences that shaped Southern Italy. The Arab introduction of almonds and spices like cinnamon and cloves during their occupation of Sicily greatly influenced the flavor profile of these cookies. The use of honey instead of sugar is another nod to ancient culinary traditions, as honey was a primary sweetener in Mediterranean cuisine before the widespread availability of sugar.
A Tradition Worth Savoring
Mustaccioli cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary tradition steeped in history, culture, and family. From their ancient roots in Southern Italy to their modern iterations in American bakeries, Mustaccioli cookies continue to delight and connect generations. See us at our next pop-up event to give them a try, or order them from our online shop.