Crostata
A flaky, fruit-filled tart featuring thinly sliced apples and a sweet preserve glaze, perfect for dessert or a special afternoon treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the crust by combining flour, sugar, salt, butter, shortening, egg, and lemon peel.
- Roll out the dough to at least 1/4 inch thickness.
- Line a pie pan with the dough, having about a 1-inch edge.
- Spread a thin coat of apricot preserves over the unbaked crust.
- Arrange the apple slices in overlapping rings to cover the crust in one layer.
- Drop several spoonfuls of preserves over the apples and spread carefully to keep the apples in place.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 60 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and coconut oil instead of shortening. If you want to add some spice, a sprinkle of cinnamon over the apples can enhance the taste. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out for easier handling. If you prefer a different fruit, pears or berries can be substituted for the apples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crostata warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Butter Potatoes as a side dish for a cozy dinner. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top right before serving adds a nice touch, making it visually appealing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crostata in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crostata contains roughly 364 calories, with 4g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fruit besides apples?
Yes, you can easily substitute apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or mixed berries. Just ensure that the fruit is ripe and adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How do I know when the crostata is done baking?
The crostata is done when the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can check the apples by inserting a fork or knife; if it goes in easily, it's ready. Keep an eye on the crust to prevent over-browning.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).