How to Make Italian Breakfast Crostata with Jam
Italian breakfast crostata is a delightful pastry that combines a buttery crust with your favorite jams to create a delicious morning treat. This traditional dessert is easy to make at home, and it is perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to making your very own Italian breakfast crostata with jam.
Ingredients
To make a classic Italian breakfast crostata, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Your choice of fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or fig work well)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once the dough has formed, shape it into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; this will make the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is chilling. Prepare a 9-inch tart pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out about two-thirds of the dough into a circle about ¼ inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the tart pan, pressing it gently into the edges.
Step 5: Add the Jam
Spread a thin layer of your chosen fruit jam evenly over the bottom of the crust. Be generous but ensure not to overfill, as the jam will bubble while baking.
Step 6: Create the Lattice Top
Using the remaining dough, roll it out and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips in a lattice pattern over the jam filling. You can make a simple three-stripe lattice or get creative with the design!
Step 7: Bake the Crostata
Bake the crostata in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the jam is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the crostata to cool in the tart pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice into wedges and enjoy your homemade Italian breakfast crostata!
Tips for the Perfect Crostata
For a variation in flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different jam flavors or even mix several jams for a unique taste.
This Italian breakfast crostata with jam is not only a treat for the taste buds but is also visually appealing, making it perfect for serving guests. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience!
Enjoy using this simple recipe to bring a taste of Italy into your home every morning!