If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that brings a touch of Neapolitan magic to your table, Pastiera is the answer. This beloved Italian pie weaves together creamy ricotta, aromatic citrus, candied fruit, and tender cooked wheat in a buttery shortcrust. With its fragrant, delicately sweet filling and signature lattice crust, making Pastiera is an experience as joyful as sharing it with friends and family. Every slice invites you to savor a little slice of Italian tradition—beautifully balanced, comforting, and absolutely unforgettable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pastiera lies in its simple yet meaningful ingredients, each contributing something special to the dessert’s texture, flavor, and charm. Don’t skip out on any of these—every one has a crucial part to play in recreating this classic!
- Cooked Wheat Berries (or pre-cooked grano cotto): Brings a lovely, chewy heartiness to the filling—and is the hallmark of a true Pastiera.
- Whole Milk: Adds creaminess to the wheat, resulting in a lusciously thick and smooth base.
- Unsalted Butter: Gives the filling a beautifully rich mouthfeel and ties the whole mixture together.
- Ground Cinnamon: Infuses a gentle warmth and depth that complements the citrus and ricotta perfectly.
- Ricotta Cheese (preferably sheep’s milk): The soul of the filling—opt for fresh, well-drained ricotta for a truly luxurious texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pie just enough to highlight all of its delicate notes without overwhelming them.
- Large Eggs: These workhorse yolks and whites ensure the filling sets beautifully and has a custardy richness.
- Egg Yolks: Add extra silkiness and a sunny golden hue to the filling.
- Orange Blossom Water: The signature Pastiera fragrance; use sparingly for that unique, springtime aroma.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the filling with cozy, classic sweetness.
- Zest of 1 Orange: Citrus zest brings freshness and an unmistakable zing.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness with a hint of tartness.
- Candied Orange Peel (finely chopped): Scattered through the filling for bursts of sweet, chewy citrus.
- Shortcrust Pastry (pasta frolla): Forms a crumbly, buttery base and the signature lattice that makes Pastiera so iconic.
- Powdered Sugar (optional): For a sweet, snowy dusting just before serving.
How to Make Pastiera
Step 1: Cook the Wheat Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked wheat berries, whole milk, unsalted butter, and ground cinnamon. Set it over low heat and simmer gently, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy—this takes about 20 minutes. This step is critical for infusing the wheat with flavor and achieving that dreamy, almost porridge-like texture. Set the pan aside and allow the mixture to cool completely before continuing.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
Once the wheat mixture is cooling, grab a large bowl and beat the ricotta cheese together with the granulated sugar until the texture is cloud-like and smooth. Add the eggs and extra yolks, one at a time, blending each in thoroughly so your filling stays velvety and seamless. Pause and inhale—already you’ll catch hints of what’s to come!
Step 3: Flavor the Filling
Add the orange blossom water and vanilla extract to your ricotta mixture, followed by the zest of one orange and one lemon, and the chopped candied orange peel. Each addition adds another layer of citrusy brightness and distinctive floral notes, turning the filling into something truly glorious. Mix gently but well, so every bite will sing with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wheat and Ricotta Mixtures
Once your wheat mixture has fully cooled, fold it into the ricotta base. Be gentle but thorough—you want the grains of wheat evenly distributed throughout the luscious, scented batter. This is where Pastiera gets its uniquely comforting texture, thanks to the combination of creamy ricotta and tender wheat berries.
Step 5: Line the Pan with Shortcrust Pastry
Roll out two-thirds of the pasta frolla and use it to carefully line a greased 9-inch springform pan. Trim any excess pastry from the edges, ensuring the base and sides are evenly covered. This buttery, tender crust provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling and ensures every slice is easy to serve.
Step 6: Fill and Lattice
Pour the ricotta-wheat filling into your prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Roll out the remaining shortcrust pastry and slice it into long strips. Arrange the strips in a traditional lattice pattern over the filling—it’s a little effort that pays off with a gorgeous, bakery-worthy Pastiera!
Step 7: Bake
Slide your assembled Pastiera into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, until the surface is golden and the center just set—it may rise a little, but will settle as it cools. The aroma will be utterly irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Let your Pastiera cool completely in the pan. For the best flavor and texture, cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (overnight is perfect). This resting time allows the citrus and floral notes to come alive, and for the filling to achieve its signature silky-smooth set. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar if you’d like.
How to Serve Pastiera
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is traditional and perfect for highlighting the beautiful lattice top. But if you want to add an extra flourish, a few thin strips of candied orange peel or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest can add both beauty and a fresh burst of fragrance.
Side Dishes
Pastiera is rich and flavorful, so a fresh fruit salad—especially with berries or citrus segments—makes a lovely, palate-cleansing partner. If you’re serving coffee, an espresso or strong brewed coffee is the ideal match for the pie’s creamy, subtly spiced filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider preparing individual mini Pastieras using tartlet pans—they’re adorable and just as delicious. You can also use decorative pastry cutters to make festive shapes for the lattice strips. Arrange slices on a platter with a twist of lemon zest for an elegant, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pastiera keeps wonderfully—just cover any leftovers well and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The pie actually develops even more delicious depth with time, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead!
Freezing
If you need to store your Pastiera for longer, wrap slices (or even the whole pie) tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before serving.
Reheating
You don’t have to reheat Pastiera—it’s traditionally served chilled or at room temperature, which helps the flavors shine. If you must, a short spell in a low oven (about 300°F for 10 minutes) will take the chill off without compromising texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ricotta for Pastiera?
Absolutely. The quality of your ricotta will have a big impact, though. For best results, use whole-milk ricotta and place it in a fine-mesh strainer overnight to remove excess liquid. This ensures your Pastiera turns out creamy, not watery.
Is orange blossom water essential for Pastiera?
While you can technically skip it, orange blossom water is one of the signature elements that give Pastiera its unmistakable aroma and flavor. Just a tiny amount delivers that classic, springtime fragrance.
Can I make Pastiera gluten-free?
With some experimentation, yes! Substitute the shortcrust pastry and wheat berries for gluten-free versions. The texture will be slightly different, but you’ll still get the delicious creamy, citrusy filling the dessert is known for.
How far in advance should I make Pastiera?
For the fullest flavor and ideal texture, try to make your Pastiera one or even two days ahead of time. Those extra hours in the fridge allow the flavors to meld and the custard to set up beautifully.
Can I use different candied fruit?
Yes! The traditional filling usually features candied orange peel, but you can play with other candied citrus if you like. Just keep the pieces small and add them sparingly so the flavors stay balanced.
Final Thoughts
Bringing Pastiera to your own kitchen is truly a joyful culinary project—one that fills your home with irresistible aroma and your table with a slice of Italian heritage. Don’t hesitate to try it, share it, and maybe even make it a new favorite tradition in your own family.
