Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco
Not all doughnuts come out with a hole
Not everything always goes according to plan
Italy
About the Expression
In Italy, doughnuts come in many shapes and forms — and not all of them with the familiar hole in the middle.
This expression means that not everything always goes according to plan.
It’s a wry and playful way to wrap up even serious conversations about things that aren’t working out 100% as desired.
The attitude it captures is very Italian in its philosophy. It’s the idea that perfection is not always possible. In fact, occasional imperfection isn’t always a bad thing.
Expressions that are similar in feeling are: “C’est la vie (that’s life),” “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry,” and “You win some, you lose some.”
Let’s Dive Deeper
Exploring Italian doughnuts is a mouthwatering journey.
One popular variety is the gloriously delectable and deep-fried bombolone.
This airy and fluffy doughnut typically has a sweet filling like chocolate, custard, jam, whipped cream or even Nutella. It’s usually rolled lightly in sugar.
The bomboloni first appeared in early 17th-century Tuscany, its native region.
The doughnut can be consumed both as a snack and as a dessert. When it’s eaten as breakfast (a common practice in Florence), it’s often paired with a cup of cappuccino or a glass of milk.
What a sweet way to start the day!