Orange Creamsicle Maritozzi

Tender little brioche buns filled with bittersweet orange marmalade and a cloud of mascarpone cream.

Like many, I encountered these darling little Italian pastries online in the last couple years as they gained popularity in the states. It’s hard not to be charmed by maritozzi. They’re essentially brioche buns filled with whipped cream and simple syrup, and the name means something like “baker’s husband” or my favorite translation, “almost husband.” Historically, it’s said they were often given by boyfriends and husbands to their lovers as a token of affection. Sweet.

This recipe builds on the recipe for Mother Brioche, so I recommend familiarizing yourself with it first. The flavor profile is dainty, airy and light. Instead of the classic vanilla simple syrup, I fill them with orange marmalade. The whipped cream is flecked with vanilla bean and enriched with mascarpone for a flavor profile that’s like an orange creamsicle, only more delicate.

Maritozzi are best enjoyed the same day, so I recommend making plans to share them with friends, or a boyfriend/girlfriend or two.