In the heart of the Marche region, the tradition of cremini fritti—sweet, fried cream bites—has been lovingly passed down through generations. I had the chance to visit Macelleria Gastronomia Clerici Giovanni & Figli in Ascoli Piceno, where Giovanni and his daughter Maria Grazia welcome visitors into their family-run business, offering a glimpse into the labor of love behind these delightful treats.
A Tradition Steeped in Family Values
“For 35 years, we’ve carried on the tradition of making oliva ascolana and cremini here,” Giovanni proudly shares. What started as a butcher shop has evolved into a culinary hub where both savory and sweet treasures are made, with cremini being among the most cherished.
Maria Grazia continues the story, explaining that cremini fritti are a quintessential part of regional celebrations. “Cremini is a cream-based delicacy, prepared with milk, flour, sugar, and egg yolk,” she says, revealing the secret behind their perfectly smooth texture. “We also add anisetta, an anise-flavored liqueur, to give it that unique local touch.”
How Cremini Fritti are Made
Making cremini is a delicate process:
- Cream preparation: A mixture of milk, flour, sugar, and egg yolk is heated until thickened. The local anisettaliqueur is added for a hint of sweetness and flavor.
- Cooling and cutting: The cream is poured into a shallow mold and allowed to cool until firm. Once set, it’s sliced into small cubes.
- Breading and frying: Each cube is carefully breaded using egg and breadcrumbs before being deep-fried to crispy perfection.
The final result is a crunchy exterior with a rich, velvety cream center, creating an irresistible combination of textures.
From Butcher to Artisan Confectioner
At Macelleria Clerici, the cremini are made in small batches, ensuring that every bite is crafted with care. “We’ve been making cremini for our customers for years,” says Maria Grazia. “Just like with oliva ascolana, it’s part of our heritage, and we’re proud to continue this tradition.”
This deep connection to family and tradition is what makes these sweet morsels so special. The unique flavor profile, combined with a sense of nostalgia, keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.
Address: Macelleria Gastronomia, Clerici Giovanni & figlie, Via Rigante Adriano 53, Ascoli Piceno
