Imagine a bread so rich, so gloriously cheesy, that it makes your taste buds dance with pure Italian joy! Crescia al Formaggio is not just another bread recipe - it's a traditional Italian Easter masterpiece that brings the warmth of family, the richness of pecorino and parmesan, and centuries of culinary heritage right to your kitchen. This golden, aromatic loaf is about to become the star of your holiday spread, promising to create memories as delicious as its flavor.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 200g pecorino cheese, grated
- 100g parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 large eggs
- 100ml milk
- 50ml olive oil
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and add the baking powder. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Grate the pecorino and parmesan cheeses finely and set aside. Ensure the cheeses are at room temperature for better mixing.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the flour well, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Add the grated pecorino and parmesan cheeses to the dough, kneading gently until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf or transfer to a traditional Easter bread mold, smoothing the surface with wet hands.
- Make a few shallow cuts on the top of the loaf to allow for even rising and decorative appearance.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, typically as part of an Easter breakfast or as a savory bread accompaniment.
Tips
- • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture • Use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor intensity • Don't overmix the dough - gentle kneading prevents tough bread • Let the dough rest to develop deeper flavors and improve texture • Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements • The shallow cuts on top aren't just decorative - they help the bread rise evenly • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for the best texture • Serve slightly warm for the most indulgent cheese-pull experience • Pair with a light white wine or fresh salad for a complete Italian Easter feast
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 135mg
