Name: Crostata (Italian Jam Tart)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-482965H25M59S
Total time: PT-482965H25M59S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 2 eggs; 2 egg yolks; 1 ¼ cup butter (room temperature); Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tbsp); 1 ¼ cup strawberry jam

Jump to Recipe

Crostata, a traditional Italian jam tart, is a beloved dessert that carries with it the essence of Italian home baking. With its buttery, crumbly crust and sweet fruit filling, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends. The simple yet flavorful ingredients combine to create a harmonious balance between the sweet jam and the delicate pastry. A perfect option for a celebratory event or just as a delightful snack with a cup of tea, Crostata offers a taste of Italy with every bite. This dessert showcases the rich, rustic charm of Italian baking, making it a timeless favorite across generations.

Whether you’re preparing it for a casual gathering or a special occasion, Crostata will impress with its visual appeal and incredible flavor. Its combination of a rich buttery crust and the tart sweetness of strawberry jam gives it a unique, comforting taste that can transport you straight to an Italian kitchen. Moreover, this recipe is flexible enough to allow for creativity in its filling, and it’s easy to make yet results in a visually stunning and delicious dessert that will leave everyone craving more. Let’s dive into the process of making this mouthwatering treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Easy to Make

Crostata is a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. The ingredients are simple and the steps are easy to follow.

2. Rich and Buttery Crust

The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust is the star of the show. With the addition of lemon zest, it has a wonderful fragrance and flavor that pairs perfectly with any jam you choose to use.

Crostata, Italian jam tart, fruit tart, strawberry jam, Italian dessert, buttery tart

3. Customizable Jam Filling

While this recipe uses strawberry jam, you can switch it up with your favorite fruit jams, whether it’s raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd for a more citrusy twist.

4. Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

From casual family gatherings to more formal occasions, Crostata fits perfectly into any setting. Its elegant appearance and delightful flavor make it an impressive dessert choice.

5. Make Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

Crostata can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules. You can also freeze it for later enjoyment, making it a great option for preparing in advance.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Sugar
Baking powder
Eggs
Egg yolks
Butter (room temperature)
Lemon zest
Strawberry jam

Variations

Fruit Fillings: You can use any fruit jam or preserves of your choice, such as raspberry, apricot, or even a mixed berry blend.
Nutty Crust: Add finely chopped almonds or walnuts to the crust for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Chocolate Crostata: Swap the strawberry jam for a rich chocolate spread or Nutella for a chocolatey twist on this classic dessert.
Citrus Twist: For a more citrusy flavor, add a bit of orange zest to the dough and top the jam filling with a sprinkle of candied orange peel.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the eggs, egg yolks, and lemon zest, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to roll out and help it hold its shape while baking.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to a tart pan or a baking sheet, ensuring the dough fits into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.

Step 4: Add the Jam

Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This border will form the rustic, crimped edges of the tart.

Step 5: Fold the Edges

Fold the edges of the dough over the jam, creating a rustic, open-faced tart. Pinch the dough edges together gently to seal.

Step 6: Bake the Crostata

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the Crostata in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the jam is bubbly.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the Crostata cool slightly before slicing and serving. You can garnish with powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure the butter is at room temperature to blend it smoothly with the dry ingredients.
If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water to help bring it together.
Ensure your oven is preheated before baking for even cooking.
Let the tart cool before cutting to prevent the jam from running out.
If you have trouble transferring the dough to the pan, roll it out between two pieces of parchment paper to avoid sticking.

How to Serve

Crostata is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. You can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the Crostata has cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. The crust may lose some of its crispness, but it will still be delicious.

Freezing

To freeze Crostata, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it at room temperature and warm it in a low-temperature oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C), and place the Crostata on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, just until warm. This will restore the crispness of the crust.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different jam for Crostata?

Yes, feel free to use any fruit jam or preserve you prefer. Apricot, raspberry, or even a mix of berries would work beautifully.

2. Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling it out and baking.

3. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Ensure you bake the Crostata long enough so that the crust becomes golden and firm. You can also brush the crust with an egg wash before baking to help it stay crisp.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

5. How thick should the dough be when rolling it out?

Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch for a balanced texture that is neither too thick nor too thin.

6. Is Crostata served warm or cold?

Crostata can be served either warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

7. Can I use store-bought jam?

Of course! Store-bought jam works perfectly for this recipe, making it even quicker and easier to prepare.

8. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts to the jam filling adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the Crostata.

9. How long does Crostata last?

It will last for about 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

10. Can I freeze Crostata?

Yes, Crostata can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly before freezing.

Conclusion

Crostata is a classic Italian dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to impress with its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust and sweet jam filling. Perfect for any occasion, this rustic tart offers the charm of traditional Italian desserts with minimal effort. With endless variations and a flavor that speaks for itself, Crostata is a must-try dessert that will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

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