Perbellini Apricot Colomba is an artisanal Italian Easter cake made with a soft, naturally leavened dough and delicious drops of apricot jam. Produced by Pasticceria Perbellini in Bovolone, near Verona, this festive specialty combines the traditions of Italian Easter baking with the delicate sweetness of apricots.
Known in Italian as Colomba all'Albicocca, this dove-shaped cake is finished with a soft glaze made with almonds from Bari, creating a fragrant topping that complements the tender, fruit-filled interior.
A Fruity Twist on Traditional Colomba
Colomba, meaning "dove" in Italian, is the traditional cake enjoyed throughout Italy during Easter. Like panettone, it is made from a carefully leavened sweet dough, but its distinctive dove shape represents peace and renewal.
Perbellini's apricot variation features small drops of apricot jam throughout the dough rather than the candied fruit commonly associated with other Italian holiday cakes. The result is a soft, fragrant dessert with a pleasantly fruity flavor.
Traditional Italian Craftsmanship
Perbellini prepares its Apricot Colomba through a dough-working and leavening process lasting more than 48 hours. Each cake is shaped entirely by hand before baking and finished with a soft almond glaze made using almonds from Bari.
The extended leavening process helps develop the cake's characteristic softness, while the almond glaze adds aroma and a delicate contrast to the apricot filling.
How to Enjoy
This apricot-filled Easter cake is delicious served on its own and makes a wonderful centerpiece for spring celebrations.
Serving Suggestions:
Easter Dessert: Serve slices after Easter lunch with espresso or cappuccino.
Spring Brunch: Pair with fresh berries, coffee and other Italian pastries.
With Mascarpone: Add lightly sweetened mascarpone cream for an elegant dessert.
With Gelato: Serve with vanilla gelato to complement the apricot flavor.
French Toast: Use leftover slices for a special springtime breakfast.
Holiday Gifting: Present as a traditional Italian Easter gift for family and friends.
Serving Tip: Enjoy at room temperature to appreciate the soft crumb, fragrant almond topping and delicate apricot filling.
About Pasticceria Perbellini
Founded in 1872 in Bovolone, near Verona, Pasticceria Perbellini is a historic family bakery known for its artisanal Italian holiday cakes, including Panettone, Pandoro, Offella d'Oro and Colomba.
Product Details
Brand: Perbellini
Italian Name: Colomba all'Albicocca
English Description: Apricot-Filled Italian Easter Cake
Producer Location: Bovolone, Verona, Italy
Net Weight: 31 oz (880g)
Featured Ingredients: Apricot Jam and Almond Glaze
Preparation: More Than 48 Hours of Leavening; Hand-Shaped
Seasonal Availability: February Through Easter
Suggested Uses: Easter desserts, spring brunches and gifting