Go Back
+ servings
Neapolitan Cream Cheese Easter Bread

Neapolitan-Style Easter Cream Cheese Pie

Paula
A rich and creamy baked dessert inspired by the flavors of traditional Southern Italian Easter pies. This version uses a smooth cream cheese filling enriched with semolina, citrus, and candied fruit, all encased in a tender, buttery crust.
4.91 from 127 votes
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 1 hour
Setting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients
 
 

For the Dough:

  • 200 g all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 80 g unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 1-2 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

  • 700 g cream cheese softened
  • 150 ml milk
  • 6 tsp semolina
  • 120 g honey
  • 100 g candied fruit (mixed peel or candied citrus recommended)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 eggs
  • 200 ml heavy cream

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large bowl, sift together the flour and salt.
  • Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add the beaten egg and sour cream until the dough begins to come together.
  • Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed, until a smooth dough forms.
  • Shape into a disk, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Semolina Base

  • Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until just beginning to simmer.
  • Gradually add the semolina in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Cook until thickened, then remove from heat.
  • Stir in the honey and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

  • Once the semolina mixture has cooled to warm (not hot), add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
  • Stir in the candied fruit, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until evenly combined.

Assemble the Pie

  • Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
  • Grease a 20–22 cm (8–9 inch) round baking pan.
  • Roll out the chilled dough to about 3 mm (1/8 inch) thickness.
  • Line the pan with the dough, pressing gently into the base and sides. Trim any excess.

Bake

  • Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy!

    Notes

    Chef tip: Let the pie cool fully before cutting to ensure clean slices. You can also substitute candied citrus peel with raisins soaked in rum for variation.
    Neapolitan Cream Cheese Easter Bread
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!