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The Lombard metropolis is not only a paradise for shoppers and art lovers, but also an eldorado for sweet tooths. If you’re looking for cakes in Milan, get ready for a sensory journey that will make your head spin (and not just for the sugar).
But before we dive into the maelstrom of cream and sponge cake, let’s take a quick tour of the sweet specialties that have made the Milanese capital famous. From the classic Torta Panarello, with its soft buttery batter and crispy sugar icing, to the modern Aperol Spritz Cake (yes, you read that right!), via the evergreen Torta Meneghina panettone cake. And let’s not forget the Milanese reinterpretations of international classics such as Sacher or Red Velvet.
In short, cakes are serious business in Milan, almost as serious as fashion week! Now, without further ado, let’s dive into this sweet tour of the best pastry shops in Milan where you can buy mouth-watering cakes at the mere mention of them.
Ernst Knam
When it comes to pastry shops in Milan, Ernst Knam’s name resonates like a mantra. This volcanic German pastry chef transplanted to Milan has revolutionized the concept of dessert with his bold and innovative creations. His pastry shop in the Porta Vittoria district is a temple of taste where you can find cakes that are true works of art.
His specialty? Chocolate cakes, of course! But don’t expect the usual Sacher cake. Knam dares with unusual combinations such as chocolate and chili or chocolate and basil. Try the Torta Antica con Lamponi, a whole-wheat shortbread base with a rich dark chocolate ganache, raspberry jam and a garnish of fresh raspberries, or the Torta Milano: a crunchy hazelnut base with dark chocolate creamy, chocolate panettone, pears and a saffron mousse.
Also delicious are the Frangipane, Chocolate Cheesecake and the various “Fondo Nero” cakes.
Where: Via Augusto Anfossi, 10, 20135 Milan
Marchesi 1824
If you’re looking for the essence of Milanese pastry, you can’t fail to stop by Marchesi. Founded in 1824, this confectionary institution has seen generations of Milanese gluttons pass by. Their pastry shop on the Duomo is a gem of elegance and refinement, where you can enjoy traditional cakes such as Torta Paradiso, Saint Honoré, Torta Aurora (also in chocolate version), Profitterol, Mont Blanc and Millefoglie.
There is no shortage of tarts, chocolate cakes such as Sacher and Nocciolina, and seasonal specialties such as Pumpkin Pie.
Where: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milan
Iginio Massari Gallery
Talking about Iginio Massari is like talking about Leonardo da Vinci for art: an absolute genius. His pastry shop near Milan Cathedral is a veritable shrine to dessert, where each cake is the result of years of study and refinement. Massari is famous for his classic creations taken to excellence, such as Millefoglie, Lactose-Free Hazelnut Ciambella, Pan Spziato or Chocolate Cake .
The specialties of this pastry shop include a wide selection of baked cakes, such as the Paradise Cake and the Almond Cake, and various single-portion specialties, such as the Italia single-portion, which takes its name from its pistachio, vanilla and strawberry-based layering reminiscent of the Italian tricolor.
All of this pastry shop’s creations, made using refined techniques, are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to special events. The bakery also offers seasonal and limited edition options, always ensuring new taste experiences for discerning customers.
Where: Via Guglielmo Marconi, Piazza Armando Diaz, 4, 20122 Milan
Pasticceria Viscontea
Pasticceria Viscontea, in the Sant’Ambrogio area, is a little gem that embodies the most authentic soul of Milanese pastries and beyond. Here, the cakes are a journey through time, with recipes handed down from generation to generation, all overseen by Head Pastry Chef Michele Mastrorilli. Their specialties? A wide range of delicious cakes!
Don’t miss the Sicilian Lemon Bavarese and the Ambrosian Coffee Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian Bavarian, the Berry Meringata, the Pear and Chocolate Cake, the Chocolate Selva, the Apple or Pear Charlotte and the Summer Symphony, a delicious combination of sponge cake, custard and berries.
All these cakes are prepared with high quality ingredients and following traditional recipes. A delicious way to discover the cakes of Milan in all their nuances!
Where: Via Edmondo de Amicis, 39, 20123 Milan
Princi
Princi is not just a pastry shop: it is a bakery and pastry concept that has revolutionized the Milanese gastronomic scene. Founded by Rocco Princi in 1986, this establishment offers a wide range of baked goods, including breads, pizzas, focaccias, and, of course, delicious pastries.
Among Princi’s specialties is the Fragolata, a real temptation consisting of a shortbread base, a layer of custard, sponge cake, fresh strawberries, all topped with strawberry jelly and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Don’t miss other specialties such as Apple Strudel and Plumcakes in various flavors (vanilla, lemon, carrot, pistachio).
Where: Via Speronari, 6, 20123 Milan and other locations
Castelnuovo Pastry Shop
Pasticceria Castelnuovo has a long tradition of excellence in artisan pastries. Founded in the heart of Milan, it has established itself as a reference point for lovers of the finest desserts.
Its specialties include the Meringata, composed of two meringue disks filled with classic or chocolate whipped cream; the Sweet Awakening, a hazelnut frangipani cookie with coffee ganache; and the Delicious Fruit, a sponge cake filled with custard and mixed berries, topped with custard and fruit; and the Fiordipesco, delicate shortbread pastry filled with chunks of fruit inside a deliciously flavored peach custard, with a thin baked sugar crust that melts in your mouth.
Each creation is the result of craftsmanship and premium ingredients, ensuring a unique taste experience that embodies Milanese pastry tradition with a touch of innovation.
Where: Via dei Tulipani, 18, 20146 Milan, Italy
Marlà Pastry Shop
When it comes to birthday or wedding cakes, Marlà Pasticceria is the name you should keep in mind. This dessert atelier specializes in custom cakes that are true edible works of art. Their skill in turning sugar into sculptures is simply mind-blowing. And the best part is that the taste matches the aesthetics: try their Red Velvet and you’ll understand why they are considered among the best bakeries in Milan.
Anniversary or birthday coming up? Choose the base, filling and decorations that make you happy: the meeting of your requests and their flair will result in the perfect combination for your special cake.
Where: C.so Lodi, 15, 20135 Milan
Hiromi Cake
Hiromi Cake brings a wave of Japanese sophistication to the Milanese confectionery scene. Founded by pastry chef Hiromi, this cake boutique expertly blends traditional Japanese techniques with high-quality Italian ingredients. Each cake is a work of art that celebrates the meeting of two gastronomic cultures.
At Hiromi Cake you’ll find unique specialties such as Shizuku Cake, a Madagascar chocolate mousse with a heart of hazelnut and ginger, and the signature Hiromi Cake, which combines plum mousse and umeshu with Japanese sponge cake. There are also creations such as Daiski Cake, a tribute to love with matcha ladyfingers and yogurt mousse, and refined versions of Matcha and Mango Cheesecake.
Where: Via Gottlieb Wilhelm Daimler, 61, 20151 Milan, Italy
Pasticceria Martesana Milan Cagliero
Pasticceria Martesana is one of Milan’s most famous pastry shops. With a history rooted in the 1960s, this establishment has managed to renew itself while keeping its original spirit intact. Their cakes are a perfect balance of classic and modern. Don’t miss their celebrated Torta Martesana, a Paradise Cake base bathed in maraschino liqueur with two layers of custard and a sponge cake crumb, or the classic Sacher and Chantilly.
If you’re in the mood to try something new, play it safe with the Alexander Cake, a pistachio streuzel with double creamy Dulcey 32 percent chocolate, pistachio praline cocoa grué crunch, hazelnuts and almonds, enriched with a raspberry gelé, cocoa Joconde Operà biscuit and a pistachio whipped ganache.
Where: Via Giovanni Cagliero, 14, 20125 Milan, Italy
Tortatelier
Tortatelier closes our list of the best pastry shops in Milan where to find delicious cakes. This dessert atelier specializes in custom cakes for every occasion. Weddings, birthdays, anniversaries: express your wish and here they will know how to please you. Each creation is personalized and will tell your story and tastes.
For example, for a graduation you might commission their famous crown-shaped cake with berries and bay leaves. Tiered cakes decorated with sugar paste are perfect for a wedding, christening or birthday.
In the store you will always find delicious fresh fruit tarts, Red Velvet, baked Sacher and even vegan cakes. What are you waiting for to try them? If you’re lucky you’ll also find the spectacular peach and lime pie in the window.
Where: Via Pietro Maroncelli, 9, 20154 Milan, Italy