These Italian Cookies Are A Great Macaron Swap For Chocolate Lovers

If you love macarons but crave something more decadent, Baci di Alassio cookies (pronounced bAh-chee dee ah-lAh-see-oh) are the perfect alternative. Originating from the picturesque town of Alassio in Liguria, Italy, these traditionally handmade chocolate-hazelnut cookies boast a rustic yet refined charm. Meaning "Kisses of Alassio," they are made from two small rounds of cocoa and hazelnut dough, joined by a luscious dark chocolate ganache. Today, the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but that hasn't stopped these cookies from becoming a beloved Italian treat.

First created in the late 19th century by pastry chef Rinaldo Balzola, these cookies were originally intended as gifts for tourists visiting the beautiful coastal town. Their signature look — two bite-sized chocolate halves pressed together — resembles a pair of lips about to kiss, hence the romantic name. With every bite, this tender cookie reveals a nutty depth and creamy sweetness. If you're a chocolate lover looking for something more substantial than the delicate texture of a macaron, these cookies are just what you need.

When it comes to enjoying Baci di Alassio, they pair beautifully with an espresso, enhancing their rich, chocolatey flavor. You can also pair them with a sweet dessert wine for a more indulgent experience. The dark chocolate ganache center in these cookies complements this pairing, making it even more harmonious. As highlighted in a recent article from Tasting Table, dessert wines, particularly Red Late-bottled Vintage Port, work wonderfully with dark chocolate, balancing its sharp and bitter notes. Perfect for after-dinner treats or as part of a special afternoon snack, these cookies are best savored slowly. Their soft, chewy texture and deep flavors of hazelnut and cocoa invite you to take your time with each bite. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with guests, Baci di Alassio cookies are an elegant and delicious way to experience a piece of Italian tradition.

While you can still buy these cookies from the original Caffè Pasticceria Balzola — now run by the fourth generation of the family — they are also widely available throughout Italy. Whether you're strolling through a Ligurian town or shopping at a local bakery, these Italian cookies are a must-try. And for those who can't make the trip to Italy, Balzola's shop has an online store where you can order these treats from your living room. A quick Google search will also reveal numerous online retailers and specialty shops that offer them, both in-person and for delivery.