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Italian Easter Pastiera: An Incredible Sweet Tradition Bursting with Flavor

Ingredients

– For the dough:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Pinch of salt

– For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
– ½ cup candied orange peel, diced
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
– Pinch of salt

– To garnish (optional):
– Powdered sugar

Instructions

Creating Italian Easter Pastiera might seem intricate, but following these simple steps will make the process enjoyable:

1. Make the Dough:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar until creamy.
– Add the egg and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.
– Gradually fold in the flour and a pinch of salt, forming the dough.
– Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:
– In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice and whole milk; bring to a simmer over medium heat.
– Stir occasionally and cook until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Combine Filling Ingredients:
– In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla, orange zest, lemon zest, candied orange peel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
– Once the rice mixture has cooled, mix it in with the cheese mixture until well combined.

4. Prepare the Pan:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle to fit your pie pan.
– Transfer the dough to the pan and trim the edges if needed.

5. Add the Filling:
– Pour the filling into the prepared crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

6. Bake:
– Place the pastiera in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

7. Cool the Pastiera:
– Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Serve:
– Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.

9. Enjoy:
– Slice up your beautiful Italian Easter Pastiera, serve it to your guests, and enjoy the smiles it brings!

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