Are you looking for a dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make? Look no further than the classic Italian crostata. This rustic, free-form tart has been delighting taste buds for centuries, and we’ve gathered 18 delectable variations to perfect your baking skills. From sweet treats like Classic Italian Jam Crostata and Lemon Curd Crostata with Fresh Berries, to savory options like Savory Tomato and Basil Crostata and Spinach and Feta Crostata, there’s a crostata recipe on this list for every occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress. With their crispy, buttery crusts and flavorful fillings, they’re the perfect way to cap off any meal. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover the joy of crostata baking!
Classic Italian Jam Crostata
Classic Italian Jam Crostata Recipe
A traditional Italian dessert, jam crostata is a simple yet elegant treat that combines the sweetness of jam with the flaky crust of pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup mixed berry jam (such as strawberry-raspberry)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spoon the jam over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the jam, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
6. Place crostata on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Curd Crostata with Fresh Berries
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of lemon curd with the sweetness of fresh berries, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread lemon curd over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Arrange fresh berries on top of the lemon curd.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with honey and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Crostata
A decadent dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts with a buttery, flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press dough into a disk shape, then roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Transfer dough to prepared baking sheet, spreading evenly.
5. Sprinkle hazelnuts and chocolate chips over dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges of dough up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over crust and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Crostata
This sweet and buttery crostata is filled with tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. Perfect for a cozy evening or a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
4. Arrange apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush edges with beaten egg for golden brown crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peach and Almond Crostata
A sweet and elegant dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings, this peach and almond crostata combines the simplicity of a rustic crust with the sophistication of caramelized peaches and toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange peach slices and granulated sugar in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle with honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the peaches.
6. Fold the pastry up over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush melted butter over the crust.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mixed Berry Crostata with a Lattice Top
Mixed Berry Crostata with a Lattice Top is a classic dessert that combines the freshness of mixed berries with the warmth of a buttery crust. This recipe yields a sweet and tangy treat perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the berry mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll out the remaining dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a pastry cutter or a knife to create a lattice-top design.
6. Place the lattice top over the berries and press the edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ricotta and Honey Crostata
This sweet and savory crostata is a perfect combination of creamy ricotta cheese, drizzled with warm honey and nestled in a crispy pastry crust. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 oz (340g) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60ml) warm honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle warm honey over the ricotta mixture.
6. Fold the crust edges up over the filling to create a crostata shape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Ginger Crostata
This Italian-inspired dessert combines the sweetness of pears with the spicy warmth of ginger, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, grated ginger, and honey until well combined.
4. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Spoon ginger-sugar mixture over pears.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape; press edges to seal.
7. Brush top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Pumpkin Spice Crostata
Warm up with a deliciously spiced pumpkin crostata that combines the flavors of fall with the simplicity of a classic Italian dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the pumpkin mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apricot and Pistachio Crostata
This apricot and pistachio crostata is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. The sweetness of the apricots pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the pistachios, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh apricots, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apricots and pistachios on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar and salt.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Crostata
Experience the sweet and soothing combination of blueberries and lavender in this unique crostata recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp dried lavender buds
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together blueberries, granulated sugar, and lavender buds.
4. Spread the blueberry mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the pastry and make a small slit in the top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cherry Almond Crostata
This Cherry Almond Crostata recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a summer dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together cherries, almonds, sugar, almond extract, and salt.
4. Arrange cherry mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Crostata
This classic Italian dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberry jam
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together strawberry jam, sliced strawberries, and chopped rhubarb.
3. Roll out the pie crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread the fruit mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top crust.
7. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Fig and Goat Cheese Crostata
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized figs, creamy goat cheese, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs (or dried)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and honey until smooth. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange chopped figs on top of the goat cheese mixture, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with a little water and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Crostata
This savory tart is perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in. The caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese create a rich and satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add olive oil and white wine (if using).
4. Arrange the cooked onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Tomato and Basil Crostata
This rustic Italian-inspired crostata is a perfect summer side dish or light lunch, showcasing the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil. With minimal preparation and quick cooking time, this flavorful tart is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush top with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Crostata
A delicious Italian-inspired pastry filled with the flavors of spinach and feta cheese, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the spinach mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the egg wash over the pastry to give it a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Crostata
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Crostata: A Twist on Classic Pumpkin Pie
This sweet and savory dessert combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the fluffiness of marshmallows, all wrapped up in a buttery crostata crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Peel roasted sweet potatoes and mash with a fork.
5. Add marshmallows to mashed sweet potatoes and stir until combined.
6. Roll out puff pastry and spread sweet potato mixture on one half of the pastry.
7. Fold other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush with melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Summary
Crostatas are a delicious and versatile pastry that can be enjoyed at any time of day. From classic jam-filled crostatas to more unique flavor combinations, there’s a recipe for every occasion. This article presents 18 delectable crostata recipes, each with its own special twist. Try the sweet and tangy Lemon Curd Crostata with Fresh Berries or the savory Savory Tomato and Basil Crostata. Or go all out with the decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Crostata. Whatever your taste, there’s a crostata recipe to satisfy your cravings.
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