2.2 pound cake - Italy
~ Supplies extremely limited ~
This is the one for people who say, “I just want the cake.”
No raisins, no chunks of fruit—just the pure expression of the dough itself.
It’s surprisingly compelling.
When you open it, the aroma is clean and simple: butter, vanilla, and a soft hint of orange blossom. Nothing competing for attention.
The texture becomes the main event here. The crumb is incredibly soft, almost silky, with long strands that pull apart effortlessly. Without fruit, there’s nothing to interrupt it.
There’s a subtle orange essence woven into the dough—not enough to call it citrus-forward, just enough to give it a sense of brightness and lift.
It’s the kind of Colomba that makes you notice the craft behind it. And once you do, it’s hard not to keep going back to it.
What We Love About This Colomba
- No fruit — pure focus on texture and dough
- Exceptionally soft, silky crumb
- Subtle orange essence for balance
- Classic almond glaze for contrast
- A minimalist, elegant Colomba
Tasting Notes
The aroma is warm and buttery with a faint floral citrus note.
The texture is the highlight—soft, airy, and almost melt-in-your-mouth. The flavor is gentle and balanced, with butter and vanilla leading, followed by a light citrus lift.
The finish is clean, slightly sweet, and quietly satisfying.
About Albertengo
The Albertengo bakery was founded in 1905 in Torre San Giorgio, in Italy’s Piemonte region. Still family-run after four generations, they specialize in naturally leavened holiday cakes made with patience and precision.
Their Colombe are fermented slowly using traditional sourdough methods, resulting in a texture that is remarkably light and a flavor that develops in layers rather than all at once.
Ingredients
Wheat flour, candied orange paste (glucose-fructose syrup, orange peels, sugar, lemon juice concentrate, natural orange flavoring), egg yolk, butter, sugar, natural yeast (wheat flour, water), mono- and di-glycerides of fatty acids, invert sugar syrup, barley malt, salt, flavoring agents.
Ingredients (icing and decoration): sugar, almonds, egg white, Piedmont hazelnut (1.0%), kernels, rice flour. May contain other nuts, soy, and mustard.
FAQ
What is Colomba?
Colomba is a traditional Italian Easter cake, similar in dough to Panettone but shaped like a dove. It’s naturally leavened, lightly sweet, and typically finished with an almond glaze.
How is Colomba different from Panettone?
Colomba is usually made for Easter and shaped like a dove, while Panettone is a Christmas cake baked in a tall, round mold. Colomba often features an almond glaze on top, while Panettone typically does not.
Why is Colomba shaped like a dove?
The dove is a symbol of peace and renewal in Italy, making it a fitting shape for Easter celebrations.
How do you serve Colomba?
Slice and serve at room temperature. It can also be lightly warmed or paired with coffee, tea, or dessert wine.
Does Colomba need to be toasted or warmed?
It’s not necessary, but a gentle warming can enhance the aroma and soften the texture.
How long does Colomba stay fresh?
Unopened, several weeks, even months, thanks to the sourdough fermentation. Once opened, best enjoyed within a few days.
