📝 About This Recipe
Hailing from the sun-drenched region of Puglia, the Scarcella is a whimsical and aromatic shortcrust pastry traditionally baked to celebrate the arrival of Spring and Easter. This lemon-scented biscuit dough is shaped into intricate symbols of rebirth—like baskets, doves, or hearts—and features whole eggs nestled into the dough, signifying new life. Adorned with a snowy white glaze and vibrant sprinkles, it is a joyful, crunchy treat that brings the authentic spirit of an Italian nonna's kitchen to your holiday table.
🥗 Ingredients
For the Pastry Dough
- 500 grams 00 Flour or All-purpose flour (sifted)
- 200 grams Granulated sugar
- 100 ml Extra virgin olive oil (use a mild, fruity variety)
- 2 large Whole eggs (at room temperature)
- 50 ml Whole milk (lukewarm)
- 16 grams Baking powder (one standard Italian sachet)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest (from 1 organic lemon)
- 1 pinch Fine sea salt
For the Decoration
- 3-4 pieces Whole eggs in shell (washed and dried; these will cook in the oven)
- 1 Egg yolk (beaten with a splash of milk for the wash)
- 2 tablespoons Multi-colored sprinkles (Codette) (traditional nonpareils)
For the Royal Icing (Optional Glaze)
- 150 grams Powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 large Egg white (pasteurized)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2
In a large mixing bowl or on a clean wooden work surface, create a mound with the flour and make a wide well in the center (the 'fontana').
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3
Add the sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt into the center of the well.
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4
Pour the olive oil, the 2 room-temperature eggs, and the milk into the center. Using a fork, gently whisk the wet ingredients, slowly incorporating the surrounding flour.
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5
Knead the mixture by hand for about 5-7 minutes until you obtain a smooth, elastic, and slightly soft dough. If it's too sticky, add a dusting of flour; if too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.
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6
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
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7
Divide the dough. You can make one large Scarcella or several smaller ones. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1 cm (1/2 inch).
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8
Cut the dough into your desired shape. A traditional 'braid' or 'wreath' is popular. To make a wreath, roll two long logs and twist them together, joining the ends to form a circle.
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9
Place the raw, washed whole eggs onto the dough. Secure them by crossing two thin strips of dough over the egg to form an 'X', pressing the ends into the base dough to lock the egg in place.
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10
Brush the entire surface of the pastry (avoiding the eggshells) with the egg yolk wash for a golden finish.
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11
Bake in the center of the oven for 30-40 minutes (depending on size) until the pastry is deep golden brown and firm to the touch.
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12
While the Scarcella cools, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, egg white, and lemon juice until thick and glossy.
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13
Once the Scarcella is completely cool, drizzle or spread the icing over the pastry and immediately shower with colorful sprinkles.
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14
Let the icing set completely for at least 1 hour before moving or serving.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic Southern Italian flavor profile. Do not boil the eggs before placing them on the dough; they will cook perfectly during the baking time in the oven. If the dough feels too tough, you may have over-kneaded it; stop as soon as the dough is smooth and uniform. For a citrus variation, swap half the lemon zest for orange zest to add a deeper, floral aroma. Store the finished Scarcella in an airtight container or wrap in cellophane; it stays delicious for up to a week.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve slices alongside a glass of sweet Moscato or Vin Santo for a classic dessert pairing. Enjoy a piece for breakfast dipped into a hot Caffè Latte, just like they do in Puglia. Pair with a selection of fresh seasonal berries and a dollop of sweetened ricotta cheese. This makes a beautiful centerpiece for an Easter brunch table—place it on a decorative cake stand. Gift smaller, individual-sized Scarcelle wrapped in clear bags with festive ribbons to friends and family.