Fluffy Roman Maritozzi — Cream-Filled Buns 🍊☁️

Golden, pillowy, and irresistibly soft — these Roman maritozzi are the cream buns dreams are made of. Originating in Rome 🇮🇹, these lightly sweetened, citrus-scented brioche buns are sliced and stuffed with a mountain of whipped cream. They strike that perfect balance between breakfast indulgence and dessert elegance, often enjoyed with a cappuccino at a Roman café.

The Story Behind Maritozzi 💍

In Roman dialect, maritozzi means “little husbands.” Legend says men once gifted these buns — secretly hiding engagement rings inside — to their beloveds! Today, you’ll find them in pastry shops across Italy, their glossy golden crusts gleaming behind the glass.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ✨

Soft & Airy Dough – A touch of butter and eggs creates the perfect brioche texture.
Bright Citrus Notes – Orange and lemon zest bring sunshine to every bite.
Pillowy Whipped Cream – Light, luscious, and beautifully balanced with the tender bun.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Bake the buns in advance and fill just before serving.

🥣 How It Comes Together

Activate the Yeast: Warm milk gently and mix with sugar and yeast — it should foam within 10 minutes.
Make the Dough: Combine flour, sugar, salt, butter, eggs, and zests for a silky, aromatic dough.
First Rise: Let it triple in size — this patience brings that signature fluff!
Shape & Second Rise: Form smooth balls, proof again until cloud-soft.
Bake to Golden Perfection: 200°C (fan 180°C) for 12–15 minutes until deep golden.
Fill with Whipped Cream: Slice gently, stuff generously, dust with icing sugar, and chill briefly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Maritozzi 💡

Proof in a slightly warm oven (off, with a cup of hot water) for consistent rise.
Chill filled buns for 15 minutes before serving for that bakery-fresh texture.
Brush with sugar syrup for a glossy finish worthy of a Roman café display.
Use double cream (UK) or heavy cream (US) for stable, luxurious whipping.

When to Serve ☕

These buns are best enjoyed in the morning with coffee, or as a light dessert after dinner. They keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 8 hours once filled — just enough time for a dinner party or brunch prep.

Flavor Twists You Can Try 🍓

Add a spoonful of strawberry jam before piping in the cream.
Whip a touch of mascarpone into the cream for richness.
Infuse the milk with vanilla bean or honey for extra depth.

A Taste of Rome at Home 🇮🇹

Bite into one of these and you’ll understand why locals adore them — soft brioche, cool cream, and a hint of citrus that sings of Italian mornings. Whether you serve them for brunch or a romantic treat, Fluffy Roman Maritozzi will bring a little dolce vita into your kitchen. 💕

“Proofed in a warm oven and got that perfect cloud-soft crumb. New breakfast favourite!” — Nimita

“So light and fluffy. The condensed milk in the cream is a brilliant touch.” — Emilia

Source: Cooking With Tucci on TikTok