Experience the charm of rustic Italian baking with this Easy Italian Crostata Recipe, a timeless treat that transforms simple pantry staples into a stunning, lattice-topped jam tart. Sun-kissed lemon zest, tender buttery crust, and vibrant fruit filling come together in every bite, offering a dessert that feels as cozy as grandma’s kitchen yet elegant enough for any dinner party. With just a handful of steps, you’ll be savoring the aroma of a homemade crostata in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to crostata, a handful of straightforward ingredients work pure magic. Each element has a special role: the butter ensures a tender base, the zest brightens the flavor, and a good-quality jam brings it all together in a jewel-like filling.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The sturdy, reliable backbone for our crumbly, delicate pastry.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough just enough without overpowering the fruit.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a little lift to keep the crust light and soft.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing all the flavors.
- Cold unsalted butter, cubed (1/2 cup): The key to a melt-in-your-mouth, flaky texture — work quickly to keep it cold!
- Large eggs (2): Bind the dough while adding richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle, comforting aroma to every slice.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Lifts the crostata, making it taste fresh and lively.
- Fruit jam (1 1/2 cups): Choose your favorite — apricot, raspberry, or cherry all shine beautifully here.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A simple flourish for a bakeshop look and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Easy Italian Crostata Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan or a springform pan with a removable bottom — this not only helps release the finished crostata beautifully, but also makes cleanup effortless. Preparing the pan ahead lets you work quickly once your dough is ready, so you’re never scrambling with sticky hands!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes everything, ensuring the baked crust turns out tender and perfectly seasoned every time.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, gently rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Don’t overwork it — those little bits of butter are the secret to a tender, flaky base in any Easy Italian Crostata Recipe!
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients and Form the Dough
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon zest. Pour this mixture over your flour-butter blend, then stir everything together until a dough begins to form. Gently knead, just until smooth. The dough is meant to be soft yet sturdy enough to hold that vibrant jam.
Step 5: Divide and Shape
Split the dough into two portions — one slightly larger than the other. Press the larger piece evenly into your greased pan, covering the bottom and sides to create a snug crust (no rolling pin needed here). This becomes the cozy nest for your jammy filling.
Step 6: Add the Jam and Lattice
Spread your chosen fruit jam over the pressed crust, reaching all the edges. With the remaining dough, roll it out and slice into thin strips. Create that classic crostata look by weaving the strips on top for a simple but oh-so-impressive lattice pattern.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide your crostata into the center of the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust turns golden and the jam bubbles softly at the edges. Allow it to cool before removing from the pan — patience really is a virtue with this delightful dessert!
How to Serve Easy Italian Crostata Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar over your crostata is a sweet nod to its Italian roots, but you can also add fresh lemon zest curls or a handful of toasted almond slivers for extra flair. Simple whipped cream or crème fraîche on the side ups the indulgence factor.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Easy Italian Crostata Recipe with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of ricotta takes dessert to the next level. A strong espresso or a cup of black tea enhances the vibrant fruit filling while balancing the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice your crostata into slim wedges and arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh berries. Individual mini crostatas work wonderfully for buffets, or offer a slice wrapped in parchment for a thoughtful take-home treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover crostata keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, pop it into the fridge, where it will stay delectable for up to five days. Always let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you need to plan ahead, the Easy Italian Crostata Recipe freezes like a dream! Once cooled, wrap the entire tart or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Store flat in the freezer for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
Revive your crostata by warming slices in a low oven (300°F or 150°C) for 5–10 minutes. This crisps the crust and brings the jam back to its luscious, glossy state — just watch that it doesn’t get too brown.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While classic all-purpose flour is traditional and delivers the best texture, you can swap in part whole wheat for a rustic touch, or even try a gluten-free flour blend (just note the texture will change slightly).
Does it matter which fruit jam I use?
Jam choice is entirely up to you — that’s one of the joys of this Easy Italian Crostata Recipe. Apricot, raspberry, and cherry are all fantastic, but homemade or artisanal jams really let this dessert shine. Just be sure to choose one that’s thick enough to hold its shape when baked.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You sure can! The dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic and chilled for up to 24 hours, making it easy to pop in the oven even on busy days. Let it sit on the counter for about 15 minutes before using to make pressing and rolling easier.
Is it possible to make mini crostatas?
Definitely! Divide the dough among small tart pans and adjust the baking time to around 20–25 minutes. They make charming, portable treats for brunches or holiday gatherings.
What’s the secret to getting a flaky crust?
Cold butter is key! Work quickly and avoid over-kneading the dough. Chilling it before baking can also help, especially on warm days, ensuring you get that perfect bakery-style bite every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s effortless yet spectacular, you can’t go wrong with this Easy Italian Crostata Recipe. There’s just something magical about weaving together such humble ingredients to create a tart that feels like an edible hug. I can’t wait for you to try it — you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a staple in your own kitchen!
Print
Easy Italian Crostata Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Italian Crostata Recipe is a delightful jam-filled tart that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust and a sweet fruit jam filling, this dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or cherry)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan or springform pan with a removable bottom.
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest. Add to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead until smooth.
- Assemble the crostata: Divide the dough into two portions. Press the larger portion into the pan to cover the bottom and sides. Spread the jam over the crust. Roll out the smaller portion of dough, cut into strips, and arrange in a lattice pattern over the jam.
- Bake: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden. Cool before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Crostata can be made with any fruit jam or marmalade.
- For a richer flavor, replace 2 tablespoons of flour with ground almonds.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
