Zeppole enjoys viral moment as Italian pastry trends on social media

CTV London's Lauren Stallone is joined by Carlyle Fiset and Julie Atchison, exploring the meaning behind zeppole.

Zeppole, a traditional Italian pastry, is currently experiencing a major viral moment on social media.

A.J. O’Connor, owner of Lynn’s Bakery & Deli in London, Ont., said the desserts were originally made for festive traditions in Italy.

“St. Joseph’s Day is a big day on March 19,” O’Connor said. “It leads into the Easter season and has a lot to do with the end of Lent and feasting, so people take the time to enjoy it.”

Creators on social media have shared how they honour the cultural tradition, posting recipe videos or ranking bakery-bought zeppole.

Many viral reels focus on the satisfying technique used to make the pastry.

“We really enjoy a choux pastry, which gets piped into bags very similar to a honey cruller,” O’Connor said. “It’s light, airy and fluffy, and we then fill it with various flavours.”