Momma’s Italian Pastierra (Holiday Pie) 🥧
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 24
Description:
Transport yourself to the heart of Italian tradition with Momma’s Italian Pastierra, a cherished family recipe that has evolved from an Easter delicacy to a beloved Holiday Pie. This delectable treat carries with it the warmth of generations past and promises to evoke nostalgic memories of joyous gatherings. Infused with love and a touch of innovation, this pie is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Sugar |
| 1/4 cup | Unsalted butter |
| 2 cups | Flour |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 4 | Whole milk ricotta cheese |
| 1 cup | Sugar |
| 2 | Eggs (separated) |
| 12 | Maraschino cherries |
| 1 | Lemon (juiced) |
| Orange (zest of) | |
| Lemon (zest of) | |
| 1 | Sponge cake |
| 1/2 cup | Candied citron peel |
| 2 cups | Chocolate chips |
| Confectioners’ sugar |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, alternating with the flour, until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add 1 tablespoon of water at a time, mixing until the dough is smooth.
- Set the dough aside in a cool place to rest while you prepare the filling.
-
Make the Filling:
- In a food processor or with an electric mixer, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, orange zest, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Fold in the maraschino cherries and candied citron by hand until evenly distributed.
-
Assemble the Pie:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
- Line the bottom and sides of a 15-inch round, 4-inch high cake pan with the dough, ensuring to press it firmly into place.
- If desired, use any extra dough to create a lattice pattern on top of the filling.
- Arrange slices of sponge cake on top of the dough, followed by a generous sprinkle of chocolate chips.
- Pour the prepared filling into the pan, ensuring it spreads evenly.
-
Bake the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the pie inside with the door slightly ajar to cool slowly.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once completely cooled, carefully remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Dust the top of the pie generously with confectioners’ sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
- Slice and serve this decadent Momma’s Italian Pastierra to your loved ones, and savor the delightful flavors of tradition and love.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 326.8
- Fat: 16.2g
- Saturated Fat: 9.3g
- Cholesterol: 160.6mg
- Sodium: 84.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 35.4g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugar: 25.2g
- Protein: 11.2g
Indulge in the rich flavors and heartwarming memories that come with each bite of Momma’s Italian Pastierra. Share the joy of this beloved Holiday Pie with family and friends, and create new traditions that will last a lifetime.
