Torta della Nonna Recipe

Name: Torta della Nonna Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: - 200 g all-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups); - 100 g cold butter, diced (7 tbsp); - 50 g sugar (1/4 cup); - 1 egg yolk (medium); - 1 pinch of salt; - 1 tsp grated lemon zest (unwaxed); - 250 ml milk (1 cup); - 3 egg yolks (medium); - 50 g sugar (1/4 cup); - 20 g cornstarch (2 tbsp); - 1 tsp vanilla extract; - 1 tsp grated lemon zest (unwaxed); - 2 tbsp pine nuts; - Powdered sugar

Torta della Nonna Recipe

Food with Style

Author:

Food with Style

Servings

6 servings

Prep Time

40 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Indulge in the classic Italian dessert, Torta della Nonna, a delightful blend of creamy filling encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry. This easy dessert recipe captures the essence of Dolce Vita, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. With simple ingredients like flour, butter, eggs, and fresh lemon zest, you can create a dessert that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're seeking dessert ideas for a cozy gathering or looking to expand your collection of dessert recipes, this Torta della Nonna is sure to become a favorite. Discover the joy of homemade desserts and treat yourself to a slice of this delicious cake, topped with crunchy pine nuts and a dusting of powdered sugar. Elevate your food experience with this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy a taste of Italy at your dining table!

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Ingredients

For the shortcrust pastry

- 200 g all-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups)
- 100 g cold butter, diced (7 tbsp)
- 50 g sugar (1/4 cup)
- 1 egg yolk (medium)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest (unwaxed)

For the cream filling

- 250 ml milk (1 cup)
- 3 egg yolks (medium)
- 50 g sugar (1/4 cup)
- 20 g cornstarch (2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest (unwaxed)

For topping

- 2 tbsp pine nuts
- Powdered sugar

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Directions

For Shortcrust Pastry

Mix the flour and cold butter in a bowl until crumbly. Add the sugar, egg yolk, salt, and lemon zest, and knead everything quickly into a smooth dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
For Cream Filling
Heat the milk in a saucepan but do not let it boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, stirring constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely, stirring occasionally.
For Assembling the Tart
Grease and flour a tart pan (Ø 19 cm) with a removable base. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) top and bottom heat or 160 °C (320 °F) fan-assisted.
Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half into a circle and use it to line the tart pan. Press gently and create a rim about 2–3 cm (1 inch) high. Prick the bottom several times with a fork.
Pour the cooled cream filling onto the pastry base and spread it evenly. Roll out the second half of the dough into a circle and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing them together. Use a toothpick to poke small holes in the top layer of dough.
Sprinkle the surface with pine nuts and bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
Allow the tart to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar.

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Torta della Nonna Questions

What is Torta della Nonna and how is it traditionally served?

Torta della Nonna, or Grandmother's Cake, is a classic Italian dessert that embodies the warmth and love of a grandmother's cooking. This tart typically features a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a creamy custard made from milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch, then topped with pine nuts or occasionally almonds for added texture and flavor. Traditionally, Torta della Nonna is served at room temperature, often dusted with powdered sugar, and is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

What are the key ingredients in Torta della Nonna and why are they important?

The essential ingredients in Torta della Nonna include wheat flour, cold butter, sugar, eggs, milk, cornstarch, and vanilla. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in achieving the cake's signature taste and texture. The butter and flour create a tender and flaky shortcrust pastry that serves as the perfect base, while the sugar adds sweetness to both the crust and filling.

Can I modify the Torta della Nonna recipe for dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes, Torta della Nonna can be adapted for those with dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring that it includes xanthan gum for proper binding. When it comes to making it dairy-free, consider using a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil for the crust and replacing milk with a plant-based milk variant such as almond, coconut, or soy milk.

How can I ensure my Torta della Nonna has the perfect texture and flavor?

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your Torta della Nonna, adherence to certain techniques is vital. First, start with chilled ingredients; cold butter is essential for creating a flaky pastry. When mixing the shortcrust dough, avoid overworking it, as this can lead to a tough texture. For the filling, ensure that you cook it gently over low heat while whisking consistently to prevent any lumps.

What are some common variations of Torta della Nonna that I can try?

While the classic Torta della Nonna is beloved, there are several delightful variations worth exploring. Some may choose to incorporate different nut toppings, such as slivered almonds or walnuts, which add a unique flavor profile and crunch. Others may experiment with fillings by incorporating chocolate or fruit purees for a modern twist on the traditional custard.