Discover the magic of autumn with Cotognata

There is something magical about the shortening days and the crisp air that smells of earth and fallen leaves. This is the time of year when our kitchens fill with the aromas and flavors of the sweetest traditions.
Today, our Cesarina Maria Luisa from Catania guides us to savor the true heart of autumn with a special treat: homemade Cotognata!
A humble dessert rich in meaning, Cotognata is a fragrant, crystallized preserve shaped into an amber-colored jelly block, typical of Southern Italy—especially Sicily. It’s the perfect meeting point between rural heritage and a flavor that is rustic yet delicate at the same time.

“A burst of flavor, simplicity, and tradition that will make you fall in love: quince, with its unmistakable aroma, transforms into a delightful treat”.

The preparation of Cotognata begins with the fruit that gives it its name: the quince (Cydonia oblonga). An ancient fruit once considered a symbol of Venus, this unusual “apple” is known for its firm flesh, tart taste, and velvety skin.
The secret behind Cotognata, and what allows it to transform from fruit pulp into a firm block you can slice with a knife, lies in its naturally high pectin content. When heated with sugar, this natural substance creates the dense, compact texture that defines the dessert, without the need for artificial thickeners.