Perbellini Colomba with Dark Chocolate Chips is a traditional Italian Easter cake made with a soft, airy leavened dough studded with rich 60% dark chocolate chips. Produced by Pasticceria Perbellini, a historic family bakery in Bovolone, near Verona, this artisanal specialty combines the delicate texture of classic Italian colomba with the delicious addition of dark chocolate.
Known in Italian as Colomba al Cioccolato Fondente, this dove-shaped Easter cake features a golden, tender interior with dark chocolate chips distributed throughout the dough. It is finished with a fragrant almond glaze made using almonds from Bari, creating a pleasant contrast between the soft cake and its delicate topping.
What Is Colomba?
Colomba, meaning "dove" in Italian, is a traditional Italian Easter cake named for its distinctive dove shape. A symbol of peace and renewal, colomba is enjoyed throughout Italy during Easter celebrations and springtime gatherings.
Often described as the Easter counterpart to panettone, colomba is made from a carefully leavened sweet dough with a soft, delicate texture. While classic versions feature traditional flavors, Perbellini's variation incorporates dark chocolate chips for a richer taste without losing the character of the original cake.
Traditional Italian Craftsmanship
Perbellini prepares its colomba using a natural sourdough starter, known in Italian as lievito madre. The dough undergoes more than 48 hours of leavening, allowing it to develop its characteristic softness and delicate aroma.
Each cake is shaped entirely by hand and enriched with 60% dark chocolate chips, which add pockets of rich chocolate flavor throughout the soft, golden dough. Before baking, the surface is finished with a soft almond glaze made with selected almonds from Bari.
How to Enjoy
Perbellini Colomba with Dark Chocolate Chips is delicious served on its own and makes a wonderful addition to an Italian Easter celebration.
Serving Suggestions:
Easter Dessert: Serve slices after Easter lunch or dinner with espresso or cappuccino.
With Mascarpone: Pair with lightly sweetened mascarpone cream for an elegant Italian dessert.
With Fresh Berries: Serve alongside raspberries or strawberries to complement the chocolate.
With Gelato: Enjoy with vanilla or hazelnut gelato.
Spring Brunch: Add to an Easter brunch spread alongside coffee, fresh fruit and other Italian pastries.
French Toast: Use leftover slices to make delicious chocolate chip French toast.
Serving Tip: Enjoy at room temperature to appreciate the cake's soft texture and the contrast between the delicate dough and rich dark chocolate chips.
About Pasticceria Perbellini
Founded in 1872 in Bovolone, near Verona, Pasticceria Perbellini is a historic Italian family bakery known for its traditional pastries and artisanal leavened cakes, including Panettone, Pandoro, Offella d'Oro and Colomba.
Product Details
Brand: Perbellini
Italian Name: Colomba al Cioccolato Fondente
English Description: Italian Easter Cake with Dark Chocolate Chips
Producer Location: Bovolone, Verona, Italy
Net Weight: 26.4 oz (750g)
Featured Ingredient: 60% Dark Chocolate Chips
Topping: Almond Glaze
Preparation: More Than 48 Hours of Leavening; Hand-Shaped
Seasonal Availability: February Through Easter
Suggested Uses: Easter desserts, spring brunches and gifting
