pionono

“The mystery behind the pionono of Santa Fe revolves around its name, which pays homage to Pope Pius IX, known in Italian as Pio Nono. Its creator, Ceferino Isla, arrived at Calle Real in Santa Fe in 1879 with the vision of establishing his own bakery, ‘Casa Isla.’ Driven by his devotion to the Virgin Mary and Pope Pius IX, the idea of a small cake bearing his name and shape was born.”

“The result is a unique sweet: short and plump, representing the cylindrical shape of the sponge cake; wrapped in a white robe through a pleated paper basket; and crowned with a zucchetto, reflected in the toasted cream that adorns the top of the pionono. This story gives a special charm to this delicious dessert.”

“In 1916, the Duke of San Pedro de Galatino offered piononos to King Alfonso XIII, who was delighted. This led Casa Ysla to become official suppliers to the Royal Household, marking their emblem with the five-pointed royal crown, although this distinctive mark was removed during the Second Republic. These historical details add a special touch to the story of the pionono.”