Name: Delightful Italian Easter Pie: A Festive Tradition
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 3 large eggs; ½ cup mixed candied citrus peel; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; Pinch of salt

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Delightful Italian Easter Pie is a cherished traditional Italian dessert that adds festive flair to any holiday table. Known as Pizza di Pasqua, this pie features a flaky crust filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, sweet candied citrus, and aromatic spices. Each bite transports you to Italy, celebrating rich culinary traditions during Easter. This delightful dish not only showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine but also brings friends and family together to enjoy a slice of joy.

Why You’ll Love This Delightful Italian Easter Pie

This Delightful Italian Easter Pie is more than just a dessert; it embodies the spirit of Easter festivities. Here are several reasons to love it:

Rich in tradition, connecting you with Italian Easter food traditions.
Perfect for celebrations, making it a staple at family gatherings.
Versatile filling options that cater to various tastes, including a savory Easter pie alternative.
Vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for all guests.
Easy to prepare using a step-by-step Italian Easter pie method.
Deliciously sweet with a hint of spice, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

This pie is truly an authentic Italian Easter dish, capturing the essence of holiday joy.

Ingredients for Delightful Italian Easter Pie

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
3 large eggs
½ cup mixed candied citrus peel
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
Pinch of salt

How to Make Delightful Italian Easter Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in the chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about one hour.
Step 2: In another bowl, blend ricotta cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in candied citrus peel, cinnamon, lemon zest, and orange zest until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Roll out half of the chilled dough on a floured surface into an eighth-inch thick circle and transfer it to a pie dish; trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Step 4: Pour the ricotta filling into the prepared crust evenly but leave some space at the top as it may puff during baking.
Step 5: Roll out the second half of the dough into another circle and place it over the filling. Pinch edges to seal and cut slits in the top for steam vents.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Delightful Italian Easter Pie

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for Easter celebrations or any festive gathering.
Each slice brings a taste of Italy and a warm sense of tradition to your table.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the ricotta mixture.
Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best taste.

Delightful Italian Easter Pie: A Festive Tradition - Delightful Italian Easter Pie - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Delightful Italian Easter Pie

This delicious pie can be enjoyed in various ways:

Pair with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Serve alongside coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Use as a festive centerpiece during Easter brunch, showcasing your culinary skills.

How to Store and Reheat Delightful Italian Easter Pie

To store leftovers, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can last for up to four days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep during holiday gatherings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Delightful Italian Easter Pie

What is Torta Pasqualina?

Torta Pasqualina is a traditional Italian Easter pie made with a flaky crust and filled with ricotta, greens, and eggs. It’s a savory Easter pie loved for its rich flavors.

Can I make Delightful Italian Easter Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving to enjoy its fresh flavors.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Delightful Italian Easter Pie?

Ensure your dough is chilled before rolling out to prevent it from becoming tough. Also, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing for the best presentation.

Delightful Italian Easter Pie: A Festive Tradition - Delightful Italian Easter Pie - additional detail

Variations of Delightful Italian Easter Pie You Can Try

Experiment with these ideas:

Add spinach or Swiss chard to the ricotta filling for a savory twist.
Incorporate different citrus flavors such as lime or grapefruit zest.
Try using almond flour for a gluten-free version of the pie.

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Caprese Salad. If you’re interested in the health benefits of ricotta cheese, you can read more here.