Crostata di Marmellata (Italian Jam Tart)

Crostata di Marmellata is a classic Italian dessert that brings together a deliciously buttery crust and sweet fruit jam. This tart is not only a favorite in Italian homes but is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use any jam you have on hand, from apricot to strawberry. It’s a wonderful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple afternoon snack. From my own personal experience, I can tell you that this tart pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Let me show you how I make this delightful Crostata di Marmellata step by step.

Notes on What to Expect

The Crostata di Marmellata will have a perfectly crisp and buttery crust with a sweet and tangy fruit filling. The lattice top adds a beautiful presentation, making it a great centerpiece for any dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For the Filling

• 1 cup (300g) fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or your choice)
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Crostata di Marmellata  here.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch tart pan (with removable bottom)
• Baking paper
• Oven
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Crostata di Marmellata  here.

Prep Time

• 15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Cook Time

• 30-35 minutes

Time to Stand

• 10 minutes (to cool before serving)

Total Time

• 55-60 minutes (not including chilling)

Ease of Cooking

• Easy

Servings

• 8 slices

Calories

• Approximately 200 calories per slice (calories may vary depending on the type of jam used)

Cost of Ingredients

• Approximately $10 (may vary based on local prices)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This will help the butter firm up and make the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out about two-thirds of the dough to fit your tart pan (about 1/4-inch thick).
2. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Step 4: Add the Filling

1. Spread the fruit jam evenly over the bottom of the tart crust.

Step 5: Create the Lattice Top

1. Roll out the remaining dough to form strips for a lattice top. Lay half of the strips horizontally across the tart, then weave the other half vertically to create a lattice pattern.
2. Trim any excess dough and press the edges to seal. You can also fold the edges of the bottom crust over the lattice for a more rustic look.

Step 6: Bake the Tart

1. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Different Jams: Use any type of jam or preserve you prefer, such as fig, blueberry, or even nut butter for a twist.
• Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup (50g) of finely chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) to the dough for a crunchy texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Crostata di Marmellata  here.

Tips

• If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water until it comes together.
• For a shinier finish, brush the lattice top with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with a splash of water) before baking.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or a fruit jam that is sweetened with stevia.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 3g

I hope this guide has made making Crostata di Marmellata seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment!