Italian Grandma's Cake (Torta della Nonna)
Torta della Nonna, which means 'Grandmother's Cake' in Italian, is a classic Tuscan dessert with a smooth, lemony custard filling encased in a buttery, crumbly pastry crust. It’s traditionally topped with pine nuts and dusted with powdered sugar, making it a delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pastry Cream:
2 cups whole milk
4 egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Pastry Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
For Topping:
¼ cup pine nuts (or sliced almonds)
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Cream:
In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest until smooth.
Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens.
Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Torta:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to fit a tart pan.
Spread the cooled pastry cream over the dough base.
Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the cream, sealing the edges.
Sprinkle the pine nuts on top and press them gently into the dough.
4. Bake:
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Serve:
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Torta della Nonna!
