In a tribute to Catholic Church history, Astoria’s La Guli Pastry has introduced a new creation—the "Pope Leo Cookie," a vanilla shortbread honoring Pope Leo XIV, the first American to become pope. The 88-year-old bakery, located at 29-15 Ditmars Blvd., has generated local interest with this new offering, according to ABC7NY.
The shop’s owner, Maria Notaro, discussed her reaction with PIX11 News, saying, "I never expected it to happen in my lifetime. We were shocked and excited." Her shop quickly prepared 25 specially made cookies, each featuring an edible image of Pope Leo XIV, to mark the occasion. The batch sold out quickly, with customers expressing interest in more. Notaro also plans to send a batch to her brother in Rome, with the aim of delivering them to the Vatican.
While customers are placing orders for the $5 sugary tribute, Notaro noticed that many have chosen to keep their cookies rather than eat them. She told PIX11 News, "A lot of people are saving them. I don’t know how," with a laugh. The cookies take several hours to make, but La Guli's staff is prepared to meet the demand, with plans to bake an additional 50 cookies.
The tradition continues from the shop's 2015 "Pope Francis Cookie," created in honor of His Holiness's visit to New York City. Last year, the shop revived this pastry tribute by distributing "Pope Francis Cookies" to inmates at Rikers Island. Reflecting on the experience, Notaro was inspired by the late pope's visit to Montorio Prison in Italy, as reported by ABC7NY.
La Guli’s customers lined up after the white smoke indicated Pope Leo XIV’s election. According to patrons who spoke with ABC7NY, the introduction of the new "Pope Leo Cookie" coincides with a significant moment in the Catholic Church’s history.
