Crostata alla Marmellata

Crostata alla Marmellata is a classic Italian jam tart that’s perfect for dessert or a sweet treat with coffee. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Pastry Dough:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fruit jam or marmalade of your choice (apricot, raspberry, strawberry, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
   • In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse a few times to mix.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract.
   • Add the egg mixture to the food processor and pulse until the dough starts to come together.
2. Form the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it comes together.
   • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Roll Out the Dough:
   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter.
5. Assemble the Crostata:
   • Transfer the rolled-out dough to a tart or pie pan. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan, trimming any excess.
   • Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
   • Spread the fruit jam or marmalade evenly over the crust.
6. Create a Lattice Top (Optional):
   • If you like, you can create a lattice top by cutting strips of dough and arranging them in a crisscross pattern over the jam.
7. Bake:
   • Bake the crostata in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the crostata to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Once cooled, slice and serve.