Crostata is a traditional Italian dessert, often referred to as an “open-faced tart.” It’s made with a shortcrust pastry and filled with fruit preserves or jam. The most common fillings include apricot, raspberry, or mixed berry, but variations with fresh fruits or even custard can also be found. Crostata is a versatile and rustic dessert, loved for its simplicity and the balance between the buttery crust and sweet filling. It’s often served as a dessert or with coffee as a treat.

How to Make Crostata

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 2 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups (375g) fruit preserves or jam (such as apricot, raspberry, or mixed berry)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pastry:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
   • Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the eggs and lemon zest (if using), and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water.
   • Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Crostata:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out two-thirds of the dough into a circle about 1/4-inch thick. Transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish, pressing the dough into the bottom and up the sides.
   • Spread the fruit preserves evenly over the dough.

3. Create the Lattice:

   • Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into 1/2-inch wide strips.
   • Arrange the strips over the filling in a lattice pattern, weaving them over and under each other.

4. Bake the Crostata:

   • Place the crostata in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~350-400 kcal
• Proteins: ~4-5 grams
• Carbohydrates: ~50-55 grams
• Fiber: ~2-3 grams

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. Crostata is a delightful, indulgent dessert that embodies the flavors of the Italian countryside.