In Naples, the Christmas season is marked by a delightful array of sweets, with roccocò standing out as a traditional favorite. These treats, which share the spotlight with other popular festive delights like struffoli, raffioli, mostaccioli, and susamielli, are essential to the festive atmosphere in Neapolitan homes.
Characterized by their donut-like shape, roccocò cookies combine almonds, flour, sugar, candied fruits, and an aromatic blend of spices known locally as pisto napoletano. They are baked to achieve a distinctive texture, typically quite firm, though nowadays softer versions are also available. Often, they are dipped in vermouth, sparkling wine, white wine, or Marsala to soften them and enhance their flavor.
