Sour cherry jam tart with buttery pastry is a classic Italian bakery staple. This beloved mediterranean dessert is a family tradition for Sunday meals.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9-inch tart pan for even pastry browning.
In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and sugar until light; beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and lemon zest for balanced flavor.
Gently fold flour and salt into the mixture, forming a soft dough; avoid overmixing to maintain tender texture.
Divide dough: press two-thirds into base and up sides of prepared pan; chill remaining dough in fridge for 10 minutes for easier handling.
Spread sour cherry jam evenly over crust, then roll out reserved dough and cut into 1/2-inch strips; lattice them over jam for classic look.
Bake for 35–40 minutes on the middle rack, until pastry is golden and jam is bubbling at the edges.
Cool completely before slicing to help filling set and prevent crumbling when cutting.