Delicious Crostata di Ricotta Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a delightful Italian dessert, look no further than this Crostata di Ricotta Recipe. This rustic tart, filled with rich ricotta cheese, is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. It’s an easy yet impressive sweet treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Imagine a buttery, flaky crust hugging a filling that’s creamy and slightly sweet, yet perfectly balanced. This Crostata di Ricotta Recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dessert that packs a flavor punch without overwhelming your palate. It’s a delicious way to showcase the wonderful taste of ricotta cheese, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.
An Authentic Italian Crostata di Ricotta
The Crostata di Ricotta stands as a symbol of Italian culinary tradition, blending simple ingredients into a remarkable dessert. This delightful tart features a creamy filling made from smooth ricotta cheese, sugar, and a touch of lemon zest, all encased in a buttery, golden crust.
When you slice into this beautiful tart, you’ll reveal the luscious interior that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of citrus. The presentation is as charming as the flavors, especially when dusted with powdered sugar just before serving. This rustic dessert not only tastes divine but also brings a slice of Italy to your table.
Creating the Perfect Crust
The foundation of any great Crostata di Ricotta is its flaky crust. A combination of all-purpose flour, cold butter, and a hint of sugar creates a delightfully tender texture. The key is to handle the dough minimally to keep it light and airy.
After mixing the ingredients, allowing the dough to chill is essential. This step helps solidify the butter, ensuring that the crust maintains its structure while baking. Rolling it out to fit your tart pan should be done with care, providing a solid base for the creamy filling to rest upon.
The Creamy Filling
The filling is where the magic truly happens. Using high-quality ricotta cheese guarantees a rich and satisfying experience. Combining the ricotta with powdered sugar and lemon zest infuses the tart with a subtle sweetness and a refreshing citrus note.
This mixture should be blended until smooth, resulting in a filling that’s not only creamy but also light. Pouring this luscious filling into the prepared crust creates a beautiful contrast that is sure to impress your guests.
Baking to Perfection
Getting the baking time right is crucial for achieving that perfect crostata. The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C), allowing the crust to turn golden and the filling to set properly. A baking time of around 30 to 35 minutes should do the trick.
Once baked, letting the Crostata cool before serving ensures that the flavors have time to meld beautifully. The end result is a dessert that not only looks appealing but also offers a delightful taste that embodies the essence of Italian pastries.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, simplicity reigns. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before presentation adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the dessert. This Crostata di Ricotta pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing its rustic charm.
Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family gathering, this tart is sure to be a hit. Its blend of flavors and textures makes it a memorable dessert that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.
A Sweet Italian Tradition
The Crostata di Ricotta embodies the warmth of Italian hospitality. It invites shared moments and sweet memories around the dining table. The ease of preparation allows for more time spent with loved ones, making this dessert a perfect choice for gatherings.
With its combination of a golden, flaky crust and creamy ricotta filling, this tart is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Italian culture and cuisine. Enjoying a slice while reminiscing about cherished times can turn any meal into a cherished memory.
An Authentic Italian Crostata di Ricotta
This Crostata di Ricotta is a traditional Italian tart featuring a delectable filling made with smooth ricotta cheese, sugar, and a hint of lemon zest. The crust is buttery and golden, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy interior. Serve it at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, diced butter, and granulated sugar. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Crostata: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Pour the ricotta filling into the crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake the crostata for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your homemade Crostata di Ricotta!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g