Arancine making and Cannolo dessert: iconic class

If you’ve ever wanted to uncover the true essence of Sicilian cuisine, this experience is made for you. In this interactive cooking class, we’ll craft two of Sicily’s most beloved specialties: arancine — golden, crispy rice balls — and cannoli, filled with creamy ricotta and rich island flavors.

As we cook, I’ll also share the fascinating stories and traditions behind each dish — from Sicily’s Arab-inspired rice dishes to the sweet customs linked to Carnival and Saint Lucy’s Day. You’ll see how these recipes have evolved over centuries, carrying with them the memories, identity, and soul of Sicilian culture.

We’ll start with the arancina, the crown jewel of Sicilian street food. Whether round or cone-shaped (depending on the city), these saffron-scented rice balls are filled—traditionally with meat ragù and peas—and fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy shell with a creamy heart.

But arancine are more than just a snack. They’re a symbol of Sicily’s cultural blend, where Arab, Spanish, and Italian traditions meet in a single bite. We’ll even dive into the famous “arancina vs. arancino” rivalry between Palermo and Catania, and explore why these treats hold special meaning on December 13th, the Feast of Santa Lucia.

In class, you’ll master every step: cooking the rice to the right texture, shaping and filling the arancine by hand, and frying them to achieve that perfect crunch. We’ll also create vegetarian alternatives and share tips so you can replicate them at home with your own twist.

For the sweet finale, we’ll prepare cannoli. From kneading the dough for the crispy shells to whipping the ricotta cream to silky perfection, you’ll learn each step while uncovering the fascinating history of this dessert—once tied to ancient fertility rituals and now a must-have at Sicilian celebrations.

About The Cooking Class

⏱ Duration:

3/4 hours

📅 Availability: 

Timetable: 10am to 1pm / 15pm to19pm

✨ Highlights:

For an additional fee, there is also a market tour (start at 9:30 am) and shopping directly with the tour guide, Walter.

📍 Location/Meeting Point:

Via Orologio, 44 90133 - Palermo

🌐 Languages:

English/Italian

Price

80€  Per person (all taxes included)

Or 110€ each with market tour

IMPORTANT INFO

- Kids under 14 are welcome — and they join for half the price!

- Please inform us of any food intolerance or allergy in advance.

- Unfortunately this cooking class is not suitable for celiacs.

- Children / teens under 18 y.o. must always be accompanied by at least one adult.