If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from Italy, the Italian Crostata Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and charm your soul. This rustic, jam-filled tart boasts a buttery, crumbly pasta frolla base encasing sweet, vibrant fruit preserves that burst with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this classic treat brings together simplicity and rich, authentic flavors that are nothing short of irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Italian Crostata Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that form the foundation of this delicious tart. Each component plays a key role in crafting the ideal balance of buttery crust and luscious filling that makes this dessert so memorable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the pasta frolla, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the dough without overpowering the fruit.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the pastry with a hint of citrus aroma and freshness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (cold and cubed): The secret to that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture in the crust.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together while enriching it with a silky smoothness.
- 1 large egg yolk: Adds extra richness and a beautiful golden hue to the pastry.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, comforting flavor notes.
- ¾ to 1 cup fruit jam or preserves: The glorious filling—choose apricot, raspberry, cherry, or fig for a traditional taste experience.
How to Make Italian Crostata Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Frolla
Begin by combining the flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt in a large bowl or your food processor. Then, cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is key for that perfect crumbly texture. Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing gently just until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking it to keep the crust tender. Once formed, flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time is essential to relax the gluten and make the dough easier to roll out.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough and Fit the Tart Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom to ensure easy release later. Take about two-thirds of the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to perfectly fit the base and sides of your pan. Press the dough gently into place, taking care not to tear it, and trim off any excess edges. This careful handling will guarantee a beautifully even base ready to cradle the filling.
Step 3: Add the Jam Filling
Spread your chosen fruit jam or preserves evenly across the pastry base. Opt for high-quality, thick preserves to avoid soggy crusts and to enjoy truly intense fruit flavor. This layer provides the vibrant heart of the crostata, so be generous but mindful not to overload.
Step 4: Create the Lattice Top
Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips about ½ inch wide. Arrange these strips in a classic lattice pattern over the jam, alternating over and under to create that charming crisscross design. Press the strip edges firmly against the tart edge to seal the top and bottom doughs together. This lattice not only looks stunning but helps the jam bubble up delightfully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your crostata for 35 to 40 minutes until the crust achieves a gorgeous golden color and the jam filling is gently bubbling. Keep an eye on the edges; if they’re browning too fast, shield them with foil. Once baked, let the pastry cool completely in the pan, allowing the jam to set and making slicing a breeze.
How to Serve Italian Crostata Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Italian Crostata Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar instantly elevates its rustic charm. For added flair, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted almonds or a few fresh berries on top. A dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato on the side complements the tartness of the preserves beautifully, making each bite a cozy celebration of textures and flavors.
Side Dishes
This versatile dessert pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a delicate green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cup of espresso to highlight the Italian essence of your meal. For an indulgent pairing, a glass of sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo beautifully harmonizes with the fruity sweetness of the crostata.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by cutting the crostata into generous squares and serving on rustic wooden boards for that authentic, countryside feel. Layer slices with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to add a pop of color. For a modern twist, create mini crostata tarts by using mini tart pans, perfect for parties or delightful individual treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Italian Crostata Recipe fresh at room temperature for up to 2–3 days, ideally covered loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to maintain the crust’s delicate texture. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week, though it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later when the crust is crispest.
Freezing
If you’d like to prepare this delight ahead of time, crostata freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole tart or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for gatherings or last-minute treats.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth and crispness, reheat slices of crostata in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the crust too much. The oven refresh revives the buttery layers and makes the jam invitingly gooey again.
FAQs
What type of jam is best for the Italian Crostata Recipe?
Traditional choices like apricot, raspberry, cherry, or fig jam work wonderfully. Pick a high-quality, thick preserve for optimal flavor and a filling that holds well during baking.
Can I make the pasta frolla dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and chilled for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, which often improves its texture. Just bring it back to a slightly cooler temperature before rolling out.
Is it possible to use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can substitute the regular flour, but results might vary slightly in texture. Adding a touch of xanthan gum can help create a similar elasticity and structure.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
If you notice the edges browning too fast during baking, cover them loosely with aluminum foil halfway through cooking. This protects the dough while allowing the center to bake evenly.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
To make a vegan Italian Crostata Recipe, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg and yolk with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind the texture may shift slightly but will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Italian Crostata Recipe — from the buttery, tender crust to the vibrant burst of jam that makes each mouthful memorable. It brings a bit of rustic Italian charm to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Don’t wait any longer; grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create this classic tart to share warm, joyful moments with your loved ones.
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Italian Crostata Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Italian Crostata recipe features a buttery, tender pasta frolla pastry filled with luscious fruit jam and topped with a charming lattice crust. Perfect as a rustic dessert or a sweet treat with tea, this traditional Italian tart combines flaky texture with rich, fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
For the pastry (pasta frolla):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
- ¾ to 1 cup fruit jam or preserves (apricot, raspberry, cherry, or fig are traditional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry dough: In a large bowl or food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix just until the dough comes together into a smooth ball. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat and prepare tart pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom to prevent sticking.
- Roll out dough base: On a lightly floured surface, roll out approximately two-thirds of the chilled dough to fit the bottom and sides of the tart pan. Gently press the dough into the pan, making sure to cover the sides evenly. Trim any excess dough from the edges for a neat finish.
- Add fruit jam filling: Evenly spread your choice of fruit jam or preserves over the pastry base, ensuring an even layer without overfilling to avoid spillover during baking.
- Create the lattice topping: Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips. Arrange the strips in a crisscross lattice pattern over the jam-filled tart, pressing the edges of the strips firmly into the base dough to seal the crostata.
- Bake the crostata: Place the tart pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the jam filling bubbles slightly. Keep an eye to avoid overbrowning.
- Cool and serve: Remove the crostata from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, carefully remove the tart from the pan, slice into 8 portions, and serve either at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Notes
- Use high-quality fruit preserves for the best flavor and texture.
- Allow the crostata to cool fully for clean slices and better setting of the jam.
- Crostata can be stored at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Chilling the dough before rolling ensures a flaky and tender crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
