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Torta della Nonna

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Torta della Nonna, also known as "Italian Grandmother's Custard Tart," is a traditional Italian dessert with a creamy lemon-infused custard filling nestled inside a buttery pastry crust. Topped with pine nuts and powdered sugar, this tart offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings or special occasions. Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Italy with this classic recipe that combines a silky custard with a crunchy, nutty topping.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

2½ cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Zest of 1 lemon

2 large eggs

Pinch of salt

For the Custard Filling:

2½ cups whole milk

½ cup granulated sugar

4 large egg yolks

¼ cup all-purpose flour

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

¼ cup pine nuts

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pastry:

    • In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt.

    • Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

    • Add the eggs and mix until a dough forms.

    • Divide dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  • Make the Custard:

    • Heat the milk with lemon zest in a saucepan until it just comes to a boil.

    • Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale and fluffy in a separate bowl.

    • Stir in flour, then gradually pour in the hot milk, whisking to prevent curdling.

    • Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.

    • Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and allow the custard to cool.

  • Assemble the Tart:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Roll out one portion of dough and line a 9-inch tart pan with it.

    • Pour cooled custard into the tart shell.

    • Roll out the second portion of dough and cover the custard, sealing the edges.

    • Sprinkle pine nuts on top.

  • Bake:

    • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.

    • Cool completely before serving.

  • Serve:

    • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Notes

  • If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pastry for the crust.

  • You can also use slivered almonds or chopped hazelnuts as a substitute for pine nuts.

  • This tart can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/torta-della-nonna/