Say hello to the crostata, an Italian tart that’s as simple as it is delightful, making it the perfect companion for your afternoon coffee. This tart, traditionally filled with jam, can also be made with chocolate spread for those who prefer a richer taste. It’s a straightforward recipe that promises delicious results without requiring you to spend all day in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This: The crostata combines the sweet, fruity flavors of jam or the decadent richness of chocolate with a buttery, crumbly crust. It’s an adaptable recipe, allowing you to use your favorite jam or chocolate spread to create a dessert that’s tailored to your tastes. This tart is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, making it ideal for both baking novices and seasoned pros.
Perfect Occasion: This tart is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, a casual brunch, or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal. Serve it at gatherings or enjoy a slice on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s also a great option for bringing to potlucks or serving at casual parties.
Baking Tips:
- Make sure to grease your tart pan well to avoid the crust sticking and breaking when removing it from the pan.
- Let the tart cool completely in the pan before attempting to remove it; this helps prevent the crust from crumbling.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 and 1/4 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of mixed oil and butter
- Vanilla and a pinch of salt
- 8 grams of baking powder
- 3 and 1/2 cups of flour (adjust slightly as needed)
- Fruit jam of your choice for filling
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add the oil and butter mixture, vanilla, and salt, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder to form a soft, workable dough.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F) and grease a tart pan.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Spread a generous layer of your chosen jam or chocolate spread over the dough.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the edges are golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the tart to cool completely in the pan before removing it to ensure it sets properly and holds its shape.
Enjoy! Serve this beautiful crostata with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Its rustic charm and delicious flavor are sure to make it a hit at any table.
