Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup candied citron peel
- 1/4 cup cooked wheat berries
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Add the melted chocolate to the ricotta mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Fold in the candied orange peel, candied citron peel, cooked wheat berries, milk, and vanilla extract.
7. Pour the ricotta mixture into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a rubber spatula.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
9. Let the pastiera cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
10. To serve, dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into wedges.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 8-10 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 420
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 36g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dark chocolate chips can be used instead of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Dried fruit can be used instead of candied fruit.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts to the filling for extra crunch.
- Use lemon zest instead of orange and citron peel for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the filling for a boozy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the ricotta cheese is well-drained before using it in the filling.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
- Let the pastiera cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover pastiera in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the pastiera in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pastiera on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Garnishes:
Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Pairings:
This dessert pairs well with a strong espresso or a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
This dessert is best served on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the filling is too runny, bake the pastiera for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- If the crust is too hard, reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to refrigerate the pastiera after baking and discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
Pastiera is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in Naples. It is typically served during Easter and is made with ricotta cheese, wheat berries, and candied fruit.
Flavor profiles:
This dessert is rich and chocolatey with a hint of citrus from the candied fruit.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the pastiera as a sweet ending to a dinner party or as a special treat for Easter.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Chocolatey, Nutty