Best Easy Crostata di Marmellata Recipe

Classic Italian jam tart with a lattice top is the quintessential homemade dessert. This simple mediterranean crostata is a family baking tradition across every Italian region.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 310 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • all-purpose flour 2.25 cups
  • cold unsalted butter 8 tbsp
  • large eggs 2 pieces
  • granulated sugar 0.75 cup
  • lemon zest 1 tsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • pure vanilla extract 1 tsp
  • salt 0.25 tsp
  • fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or preferred) 1.25 cups
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 40 g 52%
Protein 4 g 5%
Fat 14 g 41%
Serving size 110g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Combine flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter and quickly cut in with your fingertips until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep butter cold for a tender crust.

  2. 2

    Add eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix gently with a fork, then press dough together just until no dry flour remains — do not overwork.

  3. 3

    Divide dough in two: form one larger disk (about 2/3 of dough) and one smaller. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

  4. 4

    On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger dough disk to fit a 9-inch tart pan (about 1/8 inch thick). Line the pan and trim excess if needed.

  5. 5

    Spread fruit jam evenly over the crust, leaving a small border at the edges.

  6. 6

    Roll out the remaining dough and slice into thin strips. Arrange strips in a lattice over the top of the jam, gently pressing ends to adhere at the edges.

  7. 7

    Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) on the center rack for 30–35 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden and jam is bubbling.

  8. 8

    Cool the crostata in the pan for 15 minutes on a wire rack before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and proper texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient in Crostata di Marmellata is quality fruit jam, such as apricot or raspberry, which provides the tart’s signature fruit flavor and luscious filling. The buttery pastry and citrusy lemon zest are also essential for authentic taste and texture.
Q. Why is it important to use cold butter in the dough?
Using cold butter is crucial for a tender, flaky crust in this crostata. By keeping the butter cold and handling the dough minimally, small pieces of butter remain in the pastry, creating a delicate texture as they melt during baking.
Q. How can I prevent the crostata crust from becoming tough?
To ensure a tender crust, avoid overworking the dough and chill it before rolling out. Overmixing can develop gluten, making the pastry dense. Always use a gentle mixing motion and allow the dough to rest as directed.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in each serving?
Each serving (110g) of this crostata provides about 310 kcal and 40g of carbohydrates, with carbs accounting for 52% of total calories. This makes it a moderate-energy dessert fit for sharing.
Q. What gives Crostata di Marmellata its Mediterranean character?
The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients like flour, eggs, butter, lemon zest, and quality fruit preserves—staples of Mediterranean baking—without heavy cream or processed components. Its balance of sweet jam and fresh-tasting pastry is typical of Mediterranean desserts.
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