Italian Crescent Crostata
A delightful Italian-inspired crostata featuring crescent rolls, raspberry preserves, and nuts, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Separate the crescent roll dough into 8 rectangles and 10 triangles.
- Place the 10 triangles in an ungreased 12-inch pizza pan or 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Press over the bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides to form a crust.
- Spread red raspberry preserves evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins or currants over the preserves.
- Optionally, brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until light golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using apricot or peach preserves instead of raspberry. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds. Make sure to roll out the crescent dough evenly to avoid thick spots that may not bake properly. For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg with the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. This crostata pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad like Pasta Salad Medley or a slice of Special Garlic Bread for a delightful Italian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Crescent Crostata contains roughly 573 calories, with 7g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% 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 make this crostata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crostata and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and bake it the next day. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or meal prep.
Can I use different fruits in the crostata?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit preserves like strawberry or blueberry. You can also blend different flavors for a unique taste. Just ensure the preserves are thick enough to prevent a soggy crust.
What can I do if my crust is too thick?
If your crust turns out too thick, try rolling it out a bit more before pressing it into the pan. Alternatively, you can bake it for a few extra minutes to ensure it cooks through, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
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).