These Calabrian Easter Cuzzupa are one of the most beloved traditional sweets prepared in Southern Italy during the Easter season.

For many families, including mine, these cookies carry the warm flavors of childhood and home. The scent of fresh lemon zest, sugar, and flour-dusted hands filling the kitchen is unforgettable.

My mother used to prepare them every Easter, shaping the dough into rings, braids, and little nests while carefully placing the eggs in the center. I learned simply by watching her hands repeat the same gestures year after year.

Now, every time I make them, it feels like she’s still right beside me in the kitchen.

DOWNLOAD PDF OF CUZZUPE REICPE HERE:

CuzzupeRecipe

Cooking Times

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8 cookies

Ingredients

• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 large eggs (for the dough)
• 3 hard-boiled eggs (for decorating)
• ½ cup melted butter (or ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil)
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Zest of 1 organic lemon
• 1 egg + 3 teaspoons milk (for brushing)
• Granulated sugar, for topping
• Colored sprinkles (nonpareils)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and sugar.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, melted butter (or olive oil), milk, and lemon zest.

3. Knead

Mix and knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.

4. Shape the Cookies

Divide the dough and shape it into rings, braids, nests, or traditional Easter shapes.

5. Add the Eggs

Place a hard-boiled egg in the center of each shaped cookie and gently secure it with small dough strips if desired.

6. Decorate

Brush each cookie with the egg and milk mixture, then sprinkle with granulated sugar and colorful sprinkles.

7. Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Use room temperature eggs for a smoother dough.
• If the dough feels sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons flour at a time.
• Traditional shapes include rings, braids, hearts, and Easter doves.
• These cookies stay fresh 2–3 days stored in an airtight container.
• For extra aroma, add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or a splash of anise liqueur.

Nutritional Facts

(Approximate per serving)