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Casatiello

Casatiello

Casatiello is a traditional Italian Easter bread from Naples, packed with savory flavors of cheese and cured meats. This rich, dense bread is a cherished symbol of Neapolitan cuisine and Easter celebrations, offering a delicious taste of Italian heritage and family traditions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Course: Appetizer, bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Neapolitan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Dough:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup lard or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Filling:
  • 1 cup diced salami
  • 1 cup diced prosciutto or pancetta
  • 1 cup diced provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano
  • Topping:
  • 4 raw eggs optional, for decoration
  • 1 beaten egg for brushing

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, lard or olive oil, salt, and pepper to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Assemble the Bread:
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  8. Evenly distribute the diced salami, prosciutto, provolone, and grated Pecorino over the dough.
  9. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then shape it into a ring. Pinch the edges to seal.
  10. Place the ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using, place the raw eggs on top of the dough and secure them with small strips of dough crisscrossed over each egg.
  11. Bake:
  12. Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
  14. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For an authentic taste, use aged cheeses and high-quality meats from a trusted butcher.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can substitute part of the flour with cake flour.
You can skip the eggs on top if you prefer a simpler presentation.