Napolitan Pastiera – Traditional Italian Easter Cake

Cooking with Daniela

Video Stats

Host: Cooking with Daniela
Published: Jun 1, 2025
Views: 671

Recipe Overview

Prep: 30 min
Cook: 45 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 8

Overview

The Napolitan Pastiera is a beloved Italian dessert that beautifully captures the essence of Easter celebrations. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The combination of creamy ricotta and cooked wheat creates a rich filling that is both satisfying and unique. Adding citrus zest elevates the flavor profile, giving it a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Making Pastiera involves a few steps, but the process is straightforward. You start by preparing the filling, which requires cooking the wheat until tender and then mixing it with ricotta, sugar, and eggs. The addition of orange and lemon zest brings a delightful brightness to the dish. Once the filling is ready, it’s encased in a buttery pastry crust, which adds a lovely texture.

What makes this dessert particularly special is the decorative lattice on top, which not only looks beautiful but also allows the filling to peek through. After baking, the cake is left to cool, and it’s best served chilled. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, making it a memorable addition to any Easter table. Whether you’re familiar with Italian cuisine or trying something new, Pastiera is sure to impress with its rich flavors and cultural significance.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:13

Combine butter, milk, orange zest, and a little lemon.

00:21

Tip: Let the mixture become creamy for better texture.

2
00:27

Let the mixture cool down after mixing.

01:05

Tip: You can add dried fruit to enhance flavor.

3
01:30

Fill the cheesecake mixture until it reaches the top.

4
01:31

Put seven crosses on top of the cheesecake.

5
01:39

Cook the pasta until ready.

Ingredients

Serves: 8
Egg3
Sugar200g
Butter100g
Orange Zest
Lemon Zest
Flour300g
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Coconut Cream

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Chia Egg

Ingredient: Gluten

    → Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend

Nutrition

Calories
350
kcal per serving
Protein
8
per serving
Carbs
45
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Pastiera is a traditional Neapolitan dessert typically prepared for Easter.
  • The cake is made with a filling of ricotta cheese, cooked wheat, and flavored with citrus zest.
  • It is customary to decorate the top of the cake with a lattice pattern.
  • Pastiera is often enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.