Introduction
Torta della Nonna, which translates to “Grandmother’s Cake,” is a beloved Italian dessert that combines rustic charm with refined flavor. Featuring a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with silky vanilla custard and topped with pine nuts and powdered sugar, this tart is a staple in Tuscan kitchens and a symbol of comfort and tradition. Whether served at Sunday lunch or a festive gathering, it’s a dessert that evokes warmth, heritage, and indulgence.
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Ingredients
For the Pastry Crust
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling (Crema Pasticcera)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
For Topping
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Make the pastry dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Add cold butter and rub into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30–60 minutes.
2. Prepare the custard filling
In a saucepan, heat milk with lemon zest until just simmering. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Add cornstarch and vanilla. Slowly pour warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened. Let cool completely.
3. Assemble the tart
Roll out the chilled dough and line a tart pan. Pour in the cooled custard. Sprinkle pine nuts over the top.
4. Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the custard is set. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Torta della Nonna is more than a dessert—it’s a tribute to tradition and the comforting flavors of home. With its crisp crust, velvety custard, and nutty topping, it’s a timeless treat that never goes out of style. Whether you grew up with this tart or are discovering it for the first time, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.