Here’s a full, detailed recipe profile for your Italian Torta della Nonna (Grandmother’s Tart)—a beloved dessert made with pasta frolla, crema pasticcera, and topped with pine nuts and powdered sugar:
Introduction
Torta della Nonna, or Grandmother’s Tart, is a traditional Italian dessert cherished for its simple elegance and comforting flavor. With its buttery shortcrust pastry, silky pastry cream, and a topping of toasted pine nuts and powdered sugar, this tart evokes warmth and nostalgia, just like a visit to Nonna’s kitchen.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Hailing from Tuscany, Torta della Nonna is a testament to Italy’s rich baking heritage. Originally a rustic treat, it became a staple in home kitchens and trattorias across the country. Often served during Sunday lunches or festive gatherings, the tart reflects the Italian tradition of using humble ingredients—flour, eggs, milk—to create something special. It symbolizes the nurturing heart of the Italian grandmother, who baked with love and seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the pasta frolla (shortcrust pastry):
- 300g (2½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 150g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 120g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt
For the crema pasticcera (pastry cream):
- 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 40g (⅓ cup) all-purpose flour (or 30g cornstarch for gluten-free)
- Zest of 1 lemon (or ½ tsp vanilla extract, optional)
For the topping:
- 30g (2 tbsp) pine nuts
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Optional Additions
- Vanilla bean or extract in the cream for added aroma
- Almond extract in the pastry dough for a nutty twist
- Orange zest instead of lemon for a fragrant variation
- Cinnamon lightly dusted into the cream for warmth
- Thin jam layer (like apricot or raspberry) under the cream for contrast
Tips for Success
- Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling to prevent shrinking.
- Use cold butter when mixing the pastry for a tender crumb.
- Cook the pastry cream slowly, whisking constantly, to avoid curdling.
- Toast the pine nuts lightly for extra flavor before topping the tart.
- Let the tart cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent melting.
- Use a tart ring or removable-bottom pan for clean edges and easy release.
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry dough (pasta frolla):
In a bowl or food processor, combine flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Add the cubed cold butter and pulse or rub with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and yolk and mix until dough forms. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour. - Make the pastry cream (crema pasticcera):
In a saucepan, heat the milk with lemon zest (or vanilla). In a bowl, whisk yolks and sugar until pale, then add flour or cornstarch. Gradually whisk in the hot milk. Return to the pan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface), and cool. - Assemble the tart:
Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Roll out 2/3 of the dough and line a 9-inch tart pan. Prick the base with a fork. Spread the cooled pastry cream evenly. Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the cream, sealing the edges. Sprinkle pine nuts on top. - Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely in the pan. - Finish:
Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Description
Torta della Nonna is a harmony of textures and flavors: the tender, buttery pastry encasing a luscious, custard-like filling, with the nutty crunch of pine nuts and a delicate sugar veil on top. Each bite is nostalgic, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, based on 10 slices)
- Calories: ~310
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 6g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Torta della Nonna is a true celebration of Italian tradition—simple yet elegant, rich yet refined. Whether served at a family dinner, a special occasion, or as a quiet indulgence with coffee, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your repertoire. It’s perfect for those who appreciate classic desserts with a timeless appeal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This tart, while decadent, can be part of a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully. Opt for smaller slices, pair it with fresh berries for fiber, or try the gluten-free version with cornstarch. By using whole ingredients and savoring each bite, you honor the joy of baking—and eating—without excess. After all, a dessert made with love, tradition, and care is always worth savoring.
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