Torta della Nonna

Searching for a classical Italian dish that can serve as a great dessert and is also easy to prepare? Torta della Nonna, or “Grandmother’s Cake” is a creamy, custard-based tart which is garnished with with pine nuts and powdered sugar. The dish is very easy to make but has this gourmet flair and is best for any event.

Read More: Tiramisu Cupcakes

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Custard Filling

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Torta della Nonna

Prepare the Crust

• In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes. Ause your hands or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until it forms a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Custard Filling

• In a saucepan, heat the milk and lemon zest until it’s warm but not boiling.
• In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
• Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens into a custard. Remove from heat, add vanilla, and let it cool.

Assemble the Torta

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a tart pan.
• Pour the custard filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the pine nuts on top.

Bake and Serve

• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden. Allow the tart to cool completely.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps create a crisp crust that holds up well with the creamy filling.
• Use Fresh Lemon Zest: This adds a natural brightness to the custard, balancing the sweetness.
• Serve Chilled: Torta della Nonna tastes even better after being refrigerated for a few hours.

Conclusion

Torta della Nonna is a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delightful. With a creamy custard, buttery crust, and a delicate touch of pine nuts, it brings a taste of Italy to your table in a way that’s easy and accessible for any home cook. Give it a try, and enjoy this Italian favorite.

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