Schiacciata Fiorentina: the dessert you don’t expect from Tuscans

Let’s say it straight away, without too many frills: Tuscans are not famous for making desserts. Around here we take pride in unsalted bread, grilled meat, and simple, savoury food. Sweet things are… well, not really our main talent.

And yet, as often happens with people who pretend they don’t care, when you least expect it, here comes a dessert that stays with you.

Schiacciata fiorentina is exactly that: humble, soft, delicately scented with orange, dusted with powdered sugar, and stamped with the Florentine lily, almost as if it were saying: no need to show off — I’ve been here for centuries.

Traditionally eaten during Carnival — which in Florence tends to last as long as we decide it does, especially when there’s a good excuse for an afternoon snack — it’s not complicated, not fancy, and not trendy. It’s simply good. And that is probably why it is the best dessert Tuscans have ever bothered to make.

Where to eat a proper schiacciata fiorentina

Because yes, not all schiacciata is the same. And if you want to be sure you’re doing it right, these are some addresses worth writing down — and visiting more than once.

1. Caffè Gilli – Piazza della Repubblica
   A true Florentine institution. Here schiacciata meets historic elegance, among mirrors, marble tables, and wide-eyed tourists. Currently closed for renovation and expected to reopen at the end of March 2026.
2. Pasticceria Giorgio – Via Duccio di Buoninsegna
   Less city centre, more substance. A generous schiacciata, made properly, to be eaten without too many formalities. You go here on purpose.
3. Pasticceria Nencioni – Via Pietrapiana
   A name that means guarantee in Florence. Their schiacciata is fragrant, soft, and never too sweet. One of those desserts where “just a small piece” is never enough.
4. Forno Pugi – Piazza San Marco
   A historic Florentine bakery, the real kind. Simple, authentic schiacciata, no frills at all. Exactly the way Florentines like it.

In conclusion

Schiacciata fiorentina doesn’t try to impress — it just does. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds you that you don’t need excess to do something well. And maybe that’s the real secret: Tuscans don’t make many desserts, but when they do, they do them properly.

Note: the venues mentioned were selected based on the editor’s personal experience. This article does not contain promotional or sponsored content.

❤️ Support Florence Daily News

If you liked this article, please consider supporting Florence Daily News.

We are an independent news site, free from paywalls and intrusive ads, committed to providing clear and reliable reporting on Florence and Tuscany for everyone.

Your support — whether a one-time gift or a regular contribution — helps us stay independent and keep telling the stories that matter.

Donate securely via Stripe below.