Hey, Welcome to my little corner of the internet Beyond the Bayou Blog. Today, I’m excited to share with you Easter Pie Recipe. Now, let me take you back to a memory that always warms my heart.
Growing up in an Italian-American household, Easter was a time of joy, family gatherings, and of course, incredible food. I remember waiting for Easter Sunday, not just because of the egg hunts and colorful baskets, but because it meant indulging in my grandmother’s famous Easter pie along with Pecan Pie and Sweet Potato Pie.
Now, as an adult, I carry on the tradition of making Easter pie for my own family. It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, connecting me to my heritage and the cherished memories of my childhood.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through the steps of making your own Easter pie, sharing tips and tricks along the way. Let’s get cooking.
What is Easter Pie?
Easter pie, also known as “pizza rustica” or “pastiera,” is a traditional Italian dessert typically served during the Easter holiday season. It’s a rich and indulgent pie filled with creamy ricotta cheese, eggs, and various savory or sweet ingredients like meats, cheeses, and sometimes even chocolate or candied fruits, depending on regional variations. The pie is encased in a flaky pastry crust, and baked until golden brown.
Each family might have its own unique recipe, passed down through generations, making it a cherished part of Easter celebrations. It’s often enjoyed as a dessert after Easter dinner or as part of a festive brunch.
Italian Easter Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Pie Dish
- Rolling Pin
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk or Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Pastry Brush (optional)
- Knife or pastry cutter
- Oven Mitts
- Cooling rack (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ricotta cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 pound cooked ham chopped
- ½ pound Genoa salami chopped
- ½ pound mozzarella cheese grated
- ¼ pound prosciutto chopped
- 4 9 inch unbaked pie crusts
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
- Place ricotta in a large mixing bowl. Beat in eggs, one at a time, with an electric mixer on low speed. Stir in ham, salami, mozzarella, and prosciutto until well combined.
- Line two 9-inch pans with pastry. Divide ricotta mixture between the pans. Sprinkle each pie with Parmesan cheese, then cover with top pastry. Crimp the edges and cut steam vents in tops.
- Bake in the preheated oven until crust is golden brown, about 1 hour. Cool pies on wire racks.
Notes
- Preheat the oven before starting to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Use a well-floured surface when rolling out the pie crust to prevent sticking. - Customize the filling ingredients according to personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Seal the edges of the pie crust tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
Nutrition
Tips for Making Easter Pie Recipe!
- Chill Ingredients: Consider chilling the dough and filling ingredients before assembling the pie. This can help maintain the flakiness of the crust and prevent the filling from becoming too runny during baking.
- Layer Fillings: When adding fillings to the pie, consider layering them evenly for better distribution of flavors throughout the pie.
- Egg Wash: Before baking, brush the top crust with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water or milk) to give the pie a shiny, golden finish.
- Decorative Crust: Use cookie cutters or a sharp knife to create decorative shapes or lattice patterns on the top crust for an extra-special presentation.
- Adjust Baking Time: Depending on your oven and the thickness of the pie, you may need to adjust the baking time. Keep an eye on the pie and use a toothpick or knife to check for doneness.
- Let it Rest: Allow the Easter pie to rest for at least 30 minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for easier slicing.
What to Serve with Easter Pie Recipe?
