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Italian Pigna di Pasqua


  • Author: Alioui
  • Total Time: 3.5–4 hours (including rising time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

A light and fragrant Easter cake with exquisite flavors of citrus and anise.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp anise seeds or 1 tbsp anise liqueur
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Mix flour, remaining sugar, salt, lemon zest, orange zest, and anise seeds in another bowl.
  3. Whisk eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl, then add the yeast mixture.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a soft dough and knead for 10 minutes.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 2-3 hours.
  6. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased round pan. Let it rise for 1 more hour.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with a beaten egg.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool completely and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250 kcal per slice
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Protein: 6 g