Baicoli

Baicoli are small, dry, hard biscuits originating from Venice, Italy. They are traditionally served with coffee, tea, or sweet dessert wines such as Vin Santo.

The name "baicoli" is Venetian dialect for "small seabass" or "small sea basses", supposedly due to their shape resembling the small fish. They are made with simple ingredients: flour, water, sugar, yeast, and butter.

The baking process involves a double baking (similar to biscotti), which contributes to their characteristic dryness and long shelf life. The dough is first baked in a loaf, then sliced into thin biscuits and baked again to dry them out completely. This makes them very crisp and suitable for dipping.

Historically, baicoli were valued for their ability to stay fresh for extended periods, making them ideal for sailors and travelers. They remain a popular regional specialty and are often found in bakeries and cafes throughout the Veneto region.