Much like other Italian staples like piadina ... If you're curious about this unsung hero of Italian desserts, buckle up for a journey through history, pastry, and maybe even your own kitchen.

Quick and easy to assemble, this oil-based Italian apple cake is great for any time of day, and it is lighter in calories and monounsaturated fats than a butter-based cake.

there are so many other underappreciated options to choose from. Frozen desserts run the gamut, from layered frozen yogurt terrines to beautiful baked Alaskas to gluten-free Italian meringata.

Stefania Martucci is the new pastry chef at Kool Beanz Cafe, giving her the chance to share her love of baking cakes, tarts, pies and other delectable desserts ... chef at an Italian restaurant ...