Fiasconaro Manna Cream 180g
La Fiasconaro Manna Cream is a delicious spreadable cream that combines the natural sweetness of manna with the artistry of Sicilian pastry making. Handcrafted in Castelbuono, in the heart of the Madonie, this cream represents an excellence of the Sicilian confectionery tradition.
What is Manna?
Manna is a sugary sap extracted from the bark of some ash tree species. This sap, when exposed to air, solidifies to form a white, sweet substance. The collection of manna is a thousand-year-old tradition, practiced mainly in the areas of Castelbuono e Pollina, in Sicily.
Harvested between July and September, local farmers skilfully execute small engravings-named "ntacche"-on the bark of Sicilian ash trees. When the sap escapes, the heat of the Mediterranean sun causes it to crystallize into delicate white stalactites, often called "cannoli" because of their shape. This natural process gives rise to a product not only rich in sweetness, but also steeped in history: its origins date back to antiquity and it is even mentioned in biblical accounts as a heavenly gift.
Today this rare and precious ingredient continues to be prized for its unique flavor and nutritional properties.
The main active ingredient in manna is the mannitol: a naturally sweet, colorless and odorless alcoholic compound, sometimes called "manna sugar". In addition to mannitol, manna also contains. glucose, fructose, water e minerals, which contribute to its delicate sweetness and unique properties.
Characteristics of Manna
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Beneficial properties: In addition to its use in cooking, it is valued for its natural laxative properties, making it a gentle remedy with no contraindications.
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Natural sweetness: Due to its high mannitol content, manna is a natural sweetener in line with the recommendations of theWorld Health Organization to reduce the intake of added sugars.
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Limited production: Manna production is restricted to specific areas of Sicily, making it a rare and valuable product.
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Use in confectionery: Manna is prized both for its flavor and as a decorative element, and it lends itself to the preparation of numerous Sicilian desserts.
Ingredients of Manna Cream
Crema di Manna is made with a blend of ingredients carefully selected to enhance the unique qualities of manna. Inside each jar you will find:
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Vegetable oils and fats: Including sunflower oil, cocoa butter and safflower oil for a smooth and creamy texture.
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White cane sugar: Adds natural sweetness.
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Mannitol powder with manna (3.5%): A blend containing 30 percent pure manna, giving the distinctive flavor of this rare Sicilian ingredient.
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Maltitol: A sweetener that helps balance texture and taste.
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Skim milk powder: Contributes to the velvety richness of the cream.
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Hazelnuts: For added depth and aroma.
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Milk protein.: They support both texture and creaminess.
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Low-fat cocoa powder: Enriches the flavor profile with delicate chocolate notes.
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Safflower extract powder: Gives the cream additional color and character.
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Emulsifier (soy lecithin).: Ensures a perfectly smooth and spreadable texture.
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Natural flavorings: They complete the sensory experience.
Note: Cream may contain traces of other nuts and/or lupin flour.
Perfect Pairings : Seasonal Desserts and Baked Goods.
The sweet delicacy of manna cream shines when paired with a variety of classic Italian desserts, especially during the holiday season. For a truly traditional experience, enjoy it together with a soft and fragrant Pandoro or with a classic Panettone-preferably in versions without candied fruit or raisins, so that the manna flavors are the real stars.
During spring celebrations, manna cream is also a delicious accompaniment to the beloved Easter dove, the traditional Easter cake in the shape of a dove.
For those who appreciate artisanal specialties, you can serve the manna cream with sweet sourdough breads or use it to stuff cannoli inspired by Sicilian tradition. Its versatile nature makes it ideal for enhancing both holiday desserts and everyday sweet treats.
Discover More Irresistible Sweet Spreads
If your palate is looking for new adventures or you simply want to explore new flavors, Sicilian master pastry chefs-and even some famous Italian names like Dolce & Gabbana-offer a delicious range of sweet and spreadable creams ready to tempt your taste buds. Here's a taste of what you might find:
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Almond Creams: Silky, delicate and wonderfully fragrant, almond creams are a sweet tribute to Sicilian almond groves. Perfect for lovers of floral and lightly toasted notes.
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Pistachio Creams: Often made with the prized pistachios from Brunello di Sicilia or from the renowned area of Bronte, pistachio creams are rich, soft and with a savory touch that balances the sweetness.
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Chocolate Creams: Whether you crave classic gianduia (hazelnut and chocolate) or intense dark chocolate with a hint of Sicilian cocoa, chocolate lovers will feel right at home. Some versions include extra cocoa or artisanal touches for added depth of flavor.
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Hazelnut Creams: Made with the finest Sicilian hazelnuts, these creams are a velvety delight, ideal for those who appreciate the pure goodness of nuts with a delicate sweetness.
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Salted Caramel Creams: For those who love the irresistible combination of sweet and salty, salted caramel creams will captivate with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and golden taste.
Whether you prefer to spread them on warm toast, stuff a cake, or simply enjoy them by the spoonful (no judgment here!), there is a Sicilian sweet cream to satisfy every craving.
Storage
This cream typically retains its best quality for up to 12 months from the date of production. For optimal freshness and flavor, we recommend checking the expiration date on the package. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place and consume it by the date indicated to appreciate all the unique qualities of this Sicilian delicacy.
Nutritional values / 100 g
Energy |
546 kcal - 2267 kJ |
Fats |
36 g |
of which saturated fatty acids |
7.5 g |
Carbohydrates |
42 g |
of which sugars |
40 g |
Protein |
5.6 g |
Salt |
0.12 g |