Emporio Rulli

The legend of Befanini…

These traditional Italian anise cookies are named after La Befana, the folkloric figure tied to Epiphany and the sharing of sweets. Their story takes a turn along the Tuscan coast, where a 19th-century cargo ship carrying anise is said to have sunk in the Tyrrhenian Sea off Viareggio. What returned to shore found its way into local baking, giving Befanini their unmistakable flavor.

Shaped as stars and finished with colorful nonpareils, they’re our most playful pastry, bringing joy to children at the case and a sense of nostalgia to adults during the quieter winter months.

Learn more about Befanini and Italian baking traditions in our newsletter. ✨