Susamielli: Traditional Neapolitan Christmas Cookies

Susamielli are classic cookies from Naples, Italy, loved especially during the Christmas season. Notably, these charming treats catch the eye with their unique S-shape and crunchy sesame seed coating, sesamo in Italian which gives them their name and signature texture.

In fact, their history dates back to ancient times, deeply rooted in southern Italy’s culinary traditions. Initially, nuns crafted these cookies and perfected a refined version called susamielli delle monache. This recipe evolved from older honey-based biscuits that once filled the region’s kitchens. Moreover, the monastic origins added sophistication, making susamielli more than just a sweet treat—they became a symbol of skill and tradition.

The recipe combines simple yet flavorful ingredients: flour, honey, ground almonds, and warm spices like cinnamon and clove. Additionally, adding fresh citrus zest from lemons or oranges brings a bright, refreshing note. These flavors reflect Arab and Mediterranean influences that have shaped Neapolitan cuisine for centuries. Altogether, they create susamielli’s distinct sweet, nutty, and subtly spiced taste.

Over time, susamielli grew into a beloved holiday staple in Naples. Both nobles and commoners enjoyed these cookies, with slight recipe and presentation differences based on social status. Today, they remain a festive favorite, often featured on Christmas dessert tables and shared among family and friends.

The S-shape carries symbolic meaning, representing good luck and prosperity. When paired with espresso or dessert wine, susamielli capture the warmth and spirit of Neapolitan Christmas celebrations.

Susamielli are charming, traditional cookies from Naples, Italy, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. Shaped like the letter "S," these festive treats are more than just delicious—they symbolize Naples’ rich culinary heritage. Made with a fragrant blend of flour, sugar, ground almonds, honey, and warm spices like cinnamon and clove, susamielli offer a perfect balance of sweetness and depth. Each bite reflects the cozy, comforting flavors that define Italian holiday baking.
For centuries, these cookies have played a central role in Neapolitan Christmas celebrations. Passed down through generations, they are lovingly baked in family kitchens. Whether served with coffee, dessert wine, or shared on a holiday platter, susamielli bring a touch of tradition and nostalgia to every festive table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups almond flour
  • 2½ cups Honey
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 60 whole Almonds
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp cloves
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp star anise
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 lemon zest
  • 2 eggs whites

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
  2. Warm the honey, sugar, and lemon zest in a small saucepan, heating the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius).
  3. In a spacious bowl, combine almond flour and spices, followed by the addition of warm honey mix. Use your hands to blend all the elements, working the mixture until a consistent and uniform dough is attained.
  4. Use your hands to knead the dough for approximately 3 minutes. Divide the dough into balls measuring around 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Proceed to roll each ball into dowels about 4 inches in length. Shape each dowel into an "S" form and position them on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper.
  5. Whisk the egg white using a fork and use it to delicately brush over all the susamielli cookies. Enhance the cookies' appearance by adorning them with whole almonds.
  6. Place the cookies in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they attain a gentle, light golden-brown hue. Following baking, extract the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a cookie rack.

Notes

Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh almonds and quality honey. The nuts bring a rich texture, while honey adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Shape with Care: The traditional S-shape gives susamielli their signature look. Roll the dough evenly and gently curve it to avoid cracks while baking.
Don’t Overbake: These cookies should stay slightly soft inside with a crisp exterior. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove once golden brown.

Storage

To keep your susamielli fresh and delicious, store them properly. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps preserve their crisp exterior and soft, chewy inside. Stored this way, susamielli can stay fresh for up to two weeks.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze susamielli. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Avoid storing susamielli in the fridge, as the cold can dry them out and affect their texture.