Bonci Martinelli Cake is a distinctive Tuscan almond and carrot cake infused with traditional Florentine Alkermes liqueur. Made by Pasticceria Bonci in Montevarchi, Italy, this specialty combines the delicate sweetness of almonds and carrots with apricot jam, warm cinnamon and an aromatic liqueur soaking syrup.
What Is Martinelli Cake?
Martinelli Cake is part of Pasticceria Bonci's collection of specialty desserts honoring important figures from its hometown of Montevarchi. It is named after Giovanni Martinelli, a seventeenth-century Tuscan painter whose work became part of the artistic heritage of Florence.
The cake was inspired by a dessert depicted in one of Martinelli's paintings, bringing together local art history and traditional Italian pastry-making.
Almonds, Carrots and Florentine Alkermes
The cake features a soft baked base prepared with almond flour, fresh carrots, butter and eggs. Apricot jam adds a delicate fruity sweetness, while cinnamon contributes a warm, fragrant note.
Its distinctive character comes from a soaking syrup made with Alkermes, a traditional Italian liqueur associated with Florentine pastry-making. Known for its vivid reddish color and aromatic blend of herbs and spices, Alkermes gives Martinelli Cake its characteristic flavor and appearance.
A Dessert Inspired by Tuscan Art
Founded in 1953, Pasticceria Bonci celebrates its hometown through a collection of cakes named after local artists and writers. Martinelli Cake is a wonderful example of this tradition, combining a story from Tuscany's artistic past with the flavors of Italian baking.
How to Enjoy
Serve Martinelli Cake in slices at room temperature to appreciate its soft almond-and-carrot texture and fragrant liqueur notes.
- With Espresso: Pair with freshly brewed Italian coffee.
- With Mascarpone: Serve with lightly sweetened mascarpone cream.
- With Gelato: Enjoy alongside vanilla or fior di latte gelato.
- With Fresh Berries: Add raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
- For Entertaining: Serve as a distinctive after-dinner dessert.
- For Gifting: A memorable Tuscan specialty for lovers of Italian pastries.
Product Details
- Brand: Pasticceria Bonci
- Product: Torta Martinelli
- Type: Italian Almond and Carrot Cake with Alkermes Liqueur
- Producer Location: Montevarchi, Tuscany, Italy
- Net Weight: 21.2 oz (600g)
- Featured Ingredients: Almond Flour, Fresh Carrots, Apricot Jam, Cinnamon and Florentine Alkermes
- Contains Alcohol: Yes
- Suggested Uses: Dessert, coffee pairing and gifting