Crostata (Italian Jam Tart)

Crostata is a beloved rustic Italian tart made with a buttery, crumbly shortcrust pastry and a layer of sweet fruit preserves. With its simple elegance and homemade charm, this traditional dessert is often served for breakfast or enjoyed with coffee or tea as an afternoon treat. Whether made with strawberry jam, apricot, or any favorite preserve, crostata is a timeless staple of Italian home baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crostata is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. The buttery dough is tender yet sturdy, holding its shape beautifully under a layer of rich fruit preserves. The classic lattice topping adds visual appeal and a lovely texture. With minimal ingredients and no special equipment required, this recipe is a wonderful introduction to traditional Italian desserts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Large egg
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract or lemon zest
• Strawberry jam (or any fruit preserve)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract (or lemon zest) and mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out about 3/4 of the chilled dough and press it evenly into the bottom and sides of the prepared tart pan.
6. Spread the jam evenly over the pastry base, leaving a small border at the edges.
7. Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips over the jam in a crisscross lattice pattern.
8. Bake the crostata for 30–35 minutes or until the crust is golden and the jam is bubbling slightly.
9. Allow the tart to cool in the pan before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Jam Options: Use apricot, raspberry, blackberry, or fig preserves for different flavor profiles.
• Citrus Zest: Swap vanilla extract for lemon or orange zest to add brightness to the dough.
• Nutty Additions: Add a thin layer of ground almonds or hazelnuts beneath the jam for extra texture.
• Mini Crostatas: Divide the dough among small tart pans for individual servings.
• Glaze Finish: Brush the lattice with an egg wash before baking for a glossy, golden top.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover crostata at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes, or enjoy at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.

FAQs

What is a crostata?

Crostata is a traditional Italian tart made with shortcrust pastry and filled with jam or fruit. It is often topped with a lattice crust and baked until golden.

Can I use store-bought jam?

Yes, high-quality store-bought jam works well in this recipe. Choose one with a thick consistency and vibrant flavor.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

Ensure the dough is rolled evenly and that the jam layer is not too thick. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of ground nuts or breadcrumbs over the base before adding jam.

Do I need a tart pan?

A tart pan with a removable bottom is ideal, but a pie dish or shallow baking dish can be used as a substitute.

Can I freeze crostata?

Yes, crostata freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept refrigerated, or frozen for up to 1 month.

Is this dessert very sweet?

The sweetness depends on the jam used. Choose a jam with balanced acidity to complement the rich crust.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum for the best results.

What’s the difference between crostata and galette?

A crostata is typically baked in a tart pan, while a galette is a free-form rustic tart baked directly on a sheet pan.

Can I add fresh fruit?

Yes, layer thinly sliced fresh fruit like apples or plums over the jam before baking for a more textured filling.

Conclusion

Crostata is a charming and versatile Italian dessert that captures the essence of rustic baking. With its buttery crust and jewel-like jam filling, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fruit preserves in a simple yet elegant form. Whether served for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a light dessert, this classic tart is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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