Best Italian Snacks

The Best Italian Snacks You Must Try!

When people think of Italy, food is always at the heart of the conversation. But Italian cuisine isn’t just about pizza and pasta—snacks play a huge role too, and Mamma mia, do I love a scrumptious snack. Whether salty or sweet, Italy offers a variety of goodies that he simply can’t resist.

In this challenge, I sampled a mix of savoury, but mostly sweet treats, and each one was scored to give you a clear idea of what is worth trying (and maybe what to skip) on your next Italy trip—or, what to bring home as the perfect edible souvenir!

After all, while visiting landmarks and enjoying local dishes is a must, isn’t gifting a box of authentic Italian snacks to your loved ones one of the best ways to share your travel experience? Although, let’s be honest—there’s a good chance you’ll want to keep them all for your personal stash instead, so if you’ll be tempted, avoid putting them in your carry on luggage!

When working through all these treats, I also noticed many of them are made without palm oil. That means not only are they a little kinder to the environment, but they’re often better for your health too.

Watch ITALY’S Favorite Snack Treats You Must Try!

These are the Italian snacks we’re going to try today.

• Fonzies
• Tuc Cracker
• Gocciole
• Ringo
• Krumiri
• Kinder Délice
• Pan di Stelle
• Pesche
• Loacker classic
• Grisbì
• Nastrine
• Pan Goccioli

1) Fonzies

If you’re a fan of cheesy snacks, Fonzies might just be your new obsession. While they might look familiar—similar to Twisties in Australia or other chips from around the world—there’s something uniquely Italian about these corn-based, cheese-flavoured treats.

What makes Fonzies unique is that instead of being fried, they are baked, so they have a lighter texture without compromising on that irresistible crunch. And the flavor? It’s made with real cheese which is probably pretty rare for a snack that isn’t actually cheese!

Another plus? Fonzies don’t use artificial colouring which is a bonus. They actually hold a special place in my heart because when I lived in England in my late teens, I missed the Italian version, so my parents would ship me packets to munch on!

Crunchy, flavourful, and for me, sensational. Maybe because of nostalgia or because they’re just super addictive!

Score: 10/10

2) Tuc Cracker

Next up, we have Tuc Crackers— salty whole-grain crackers that are loved worldwide and made by the same company behind Fonzies, Mondelēz International. While you might find these crackers in many countries, there’s something special about the Italian version. Baked in Italy using Italian wheat, they’re rich in grains and deliver a sensational flavour that feels more natural and authentic.

The crackers come in convenient, small packets, and their shape makes them easy to break into bite-sized pieces—perfect for snacking on the go or as part of a grazing board which you could add cold meats and cheese to. Light and crunchy, they’re a joy to eat on their own, but even better when you spread some creamy cheese on top and add a slice of salami.

For some reason, the Italian version always seems lighter, crunchier, and just better overall. Whether it’s the quality of the wheat or the baking process, these crackers stand a cut above some other versions.

Score: 8/10

3) Gocciole

It’s time to bring out the big guns—Gocciole! These shortbread cookies with chocolate chips originated in Piedmont, Italy, and have been a household favourite for generations. Growing up, these were a staple of my childhood, and this is the original brand that started it all. If you spot this packaging, you know you’re enjoying the real deal—not an imitation.

When I opened the bag, the nostalgic aroma instantly takes me back to being a kid. Gocciole cookies are not only shaped like water drops (which is the what the name translates to) but they’re also packed with chocolate chips—generously too. With every bite, you get the perfect balance of buttery shortbread and rich chocolate.

What I love most about these cookies is how they’re not too heavy or overly sweet, making it far too easy to grab another (and another!). If you love sweets, spread a layer of Nutella or pistachio cream between two cookies to create a sandwich, then dip it in a cup of milk—absolute bliss.

Score: 10/10

 

4) Ringo

Ringo is a classic treat that so many Italian kids grow up eating. These iconic two-toned biscuits—one vanilla, one chocolate—sandwich a creamy hazelnut chocolate filling that’s both indulgent and nostalgic. Here’s a fun fact: they’re actually named after Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer for The Beatles!

As a kid, I had a ritual: twist the cookies apart, lick the luscious filling, and then devour the biscuits one by one. (I still do it sometimes and I’ve taught my eldest son Sebastian to do the same) The cream is rich, smooth, and undoubtedly the highlight, while the biscuits are light, sweet, and delightfully easy to munch on.

That said, while Ringo is undeniably nostalgic, it wasn’t the best Italian snack of the day. The biscuits, while good, didn’t stand out as much as others. Still, they’re an Italian classic worth trying, especially if you want a taste of Italian childhood.

Score: 7/10

5) Krumiri (Italian treat made for king)

Krumiri is one of the oldest and most traditional cookies you’ll find in Italy. These biscuits have a royal history—they were reportedly made for King Victor Emmanuel II, which explains their long-standing reputation. These cookies have a distinct curved shape that feels almost artisan in design, making them stand out from other biscuits. The version I tried was created by the Bistefani brand and features a chocolate filling sandwiched between layers of pasta frolla (Italian shortcrust pastry). From the very first bite, you can tell the quality of the ingredients is exceptional. The buttery richness and balanced sweetness of the biscuit are paired perfectly with the smooth chocolate.

In terms of ingredients and craftsmanship, I’d even say Krumiri outshine Gocciole, though their popularity doesn’t reflect it. These are refined, elegant, and perfect for anyone who appreciates a traditional, high-quality treat.

Score: 8.5/10

 

6) Kinder Délice

Produced by the renowned Ferrero company, this treat is a chocolate lover’s dream. With Ferrero’s reputation for iconic products like Nutella and Ferrero Rocher, you can trust that this cake bar is both easy to find and delightful to enjoy.

This Italian snack, combines a cocoa sponge cake with a soft, creamy milk centre, all wrapped in a rich milk chocolate coating. The moment you take a bite, you’ll notice a moist, spongy brioche texture, silky cream, and a chocolatey outer layer that melts in your mouth.

What really sets Kinder Délice apart is its quality. Despite being a packaged snack, it doesn’t have that artificial “factory taste.” Instead, it feels like something freshly made in a pastry shop— and is oh-so-satisfying.

If you’re craving a quick yet slightly indulgent chocolate treat, this one is a winner.

Score: 9/10

7) Pan di Stelle (my favorite Italian snack!)

Pan di Stelle is, without a doubt, my favourite biscuit on the planet. Made with 100% Italian fresh milk and high-quality ingredients, these chocolate and hazelnut cookies for me, are divine. And let’s talk about their appearance—each cookie is topped with adorable sugar stars and a sprinkle of sugar. How can you go wrong with a combination that looks this good?

The moment you open the package, you’re greeted with a chocolate aroma that’s simply irresistible. The flavour lives up to the scent: rich, chocolatey, and perfectly balanced with a hint of hazelnut. They melt in your mouth beautifully, and if you dip them in milk? Absolute perfection.

These cookies have been a constant in my life since I was a kid, and I know they’ll stay with me for a very long time. Aesthetic, nostalgic, and utterly delicious—Pan di Stelle truly deserves its iconic status.

Score: 10/10

8) Pesche

Pesche, or “Peach Cookies,” are a classic Italian pastry shop treat. These unique biscuits are shaped like little peaches—two soft cookies sandwiched together with a layer of chocolate cream in the middle and coated in a sugary crust.

When bought from a pastry shop, they’re usually moist and perfectly balanced, but the supermarket versions can sometimes be disappointingly dry. And trust me, dryness is a dealbreaker for this dessert.

That said, Pesche isn’t a universal favourite. While some might fall in love with their sweetness and texture (and give them a perfect 10), they’ve never really been my favourite. I’m not sure why, but they just don’t do it for me.

Still, they’re worth a try—who knows, you might love them.

Score: 6/10

9) Loacker classic

Loacker Classic wafers are a worldwide favourite, and for good reason. Available in many countries, including Australia, these wafers are nothing short of sensational. In fact, they’re a staple in my house—I always keep a pack on hand!

What makes Loacker so special is its filling. Produced in the Dolomites, a serene region in northeast Italy nestled between the Austrian border and the Venetian plains, these wafers truly feel like they’re made with love and care. Maybe it’s the pure mountain air or the quality of the ingredients, but you can taste the difference.

The wafers are perfectly crunchy, with a delicate texture that crumbles just right, while the chocolate filling is rich and smooth, overall they are satisfying to eat. Trust me, there’s no better wafer out there. They’re perfect for snacking on your own or sharig with friends and family.

Score: 10/10

10 ) Grisbì

Grisbì biscuits are nothing short of incredible, and I hope you get the chance to try them. Made by the Vicenzi group—the same company behind Savoiardi biscuits (a must-have for my tiramisu recipe)—these have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Reserved for special occasions, they feel like a little celebration in every bite.

What makes Grisbì stand out is their exceptional quality. Sealed carefully to preserve their freshness, these shortbread cookies come with a beautiful filling inside. There are lots of options available—pistachio, strawberry, dark chocolate, and more—but I tried the hazelnut version for this taste test. The biscuits are so delicate, and the chocolate filling is rich and velvety.

They’re not your everyday snack—they’re a little pricier than most—but they’re worth it when you’re in the mood to indulge and reward yourself.

Score: 10/10

 

11) Nastrine

Nastrine, another yummy treat from Mulino Bianco, lives up to the brand’s reputation for consistently delivering quality products. While others might underrate them, I believe these treats deserve more recognition.

Nastrine combine sourdough and a delicate puff pastry style, using simple, mostly natural ingredients. Opening the package greets you with a beautiful, fresh aroma, highlighted by a hint of orange zest.

The brioche-like texture is soft and flaky, and you can even see tiny bits of orange zest inside when you take a bite. While they’re delicious on their own, dipping them in milk takes them to another level. Personally, I think they’d be even better with a creamy filling in the middle, but even without, they’re still a satisfying Italian snack.

That said, I remember them being more moist when I was younger.

Score: 8/10

12) Pan Goccioli

Another standout product from Mulino Bianco, Pan Goccioli uses fresh eggs and natural ingredients in its recipe. The new recipe uses 38% less sugar and 58% less fat, so it’s a slightly lighter but still delivers amazing flavour.

What’s particularly great about this snack is the packaging. The packaging individually wraps each piece in convenient pouches, making it perfect for on-the-go moments—whether you’re packing it for school, work, or travel.

The bread itself is super moist, almost like a sweet focaccia. It looks similar to a hot cross bun but delivers a softer, fresher feel, as if the bakers baked it that very day.

I will say, I remember these being slightly bigger when I was younger, but the flavour and texture remain unmatched. Honestly, no other soft bread compares to this one. I need this to be available in Australia—and every year we stock up when travelling back home. (It’s definitely loved by everyone in our household).

Score: 10/10

 

13) Baiocchi

Saving the best for last—Baiocchi is yet another standout creation from Mulino Bianco.

While Baiocchi might look similar to Ringo, they’re in a league of their own. Made with 100% Italian hazelnuts and cocoa, these biscuits are rich, buttery, and packed with flavour. The filling in the middle is thicker than Ringo’s, giving you a more satisfying bite.

The biscuit is perfectly crafted. It’s light, crumbly, and impossible to resist. Once you start eating them, you won’t want to stop!

Score: 10/10

Wrapping Up: What’s Your Favourite Italian Snack?

What do you think of this snack taste test? Have you tried any of these before, or are there other snack ideas you’d add to the list? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

I was completely honest with my Italian snack reviews and truly enjoyed every single product I tried (although it turned into more of a biscuit review in some ways because I enjoy them so much for me, they are the perfect snack!). Honestly, they’re all worth tasting, so if you’re planning a trip to Italy (or find these at your local shop), make sure to give them a try. Each one is a little bite of Italian tradition—and trust me, you won’t regret it.

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