Italian Grandma’s Cake (Torta della Nonna) Recipe

Torta della Nonna, or Italian Grandma’s Cake, is a beloved traditional dessert from Tuscany, cherished across Italy for its simple yet elegant flavors. This rustic tart features a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with creamy custard, topped with toasted pine nuts and a dusting of powdered sugar. The contrast between the crumbly crust and silky filling makes it a delightful treat, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Shortcrust Pastry (Pasta Frolla):
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon
For the Custard Filling (Crema Pasticcera):
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of ½ lemon
For the Topping:
  • ½ cup pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry:
  • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
  • Add cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in the egg and egg yolk, kneading gently until a dough forms.
  • Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  1. Make the Custard Filling:
  • In a saucepan, heat milk with lemon zest until warm (but not boiling).
  • In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and flour until smooth.
  • Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
  • Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
  • Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool.
  1. Assemble the Cake:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Roll out ⅔ of the pastry dough and press it into a 9-inch tart pan.
  • Pour the custard filling over the crust.
  • Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the filling, sealing the edges.
  1. Add the Topping:
  • Sprinkle pine nuts evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
  1. Cool & Serve:
  • Let the cake cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
  • Slice and enjoy this classic Italian dessert with coffee or tea!

This Torta della Nonna is a timeless recipe that embodies the warmth and tradition of Italian home baking. Would you like variations or serving suggestions? 😊

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