Around the holidays we’re all indulging in foods that we would normally stay away from for most of the rest of the year. At least we try to. If there’s one thing we’re getting into more of this time of year it is cookies and sweets. There is one cookie that I think is the grand champion of them all, and that would be the Italian Rainbow Cookie.
Did you know that it originated in New York State and not Italy? I just learned that recently. These are also a type of cookie that I always bring with me to gatherings so not to arrive empty handed. I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t like them yet.
History of the rainbow cookie
When it comes to the rainbow cookie in the Capital Region I think there are a couple of clear contenders for who makes the best one. For me, my absolute favorite is at Villa Italia in Schenectady. It’s really hard to beat how well they make this delicious treat. My other favorite place to get them is at Bella Napoli. Through around the holidays be prepared to wait in long lines for both of these places sweet treats.
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If you can’t get to either one of those places the best ones I’ve found that you can get at the grocery store can be found at Market 32. The brand is Ruggero’s and it’s a bake shop on Long Island we’re lucky enough to have them carried here in the Capital Region. Top notch if you can’t get to a local shop to get them.
I would like to petition that we make it mandatory to have these cookies at every holiday party from now until the end of time. I’d also like to replace apple pie with rainbow cookies as New York’s favorite dessert item.
The Capital Region’s 10 Best Italian Restaurants [RANKED]
When it comes to food, the Capital Region is best known for its long list of great Italian restaurants. From chicken parm to veal to amazing seafood dishes and everything in between, here are the best of the best in the greater Albany area according to GNA listeners.
Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
Dining and Cooking