PASTICCIOTTI WITH CUSTARD & AMARENA FILLING

Originating from the sunny regions of Southern Italy, pasticciotti are beloved pastries featuring a buttery crust filled with luscious custard cream and adorned with sweet Amarena cherries.

These miniature delights encapsulate the essence of Italian pastry craftsmanship, offering a perfect balance of richness and fruity tanginess in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian Flavor: Combines a rich custard with tangy Amarena cherries for a perfect balance.
• Versatile and Elegant: Ideal for celebrations, coffee breaks, or gifting.
• Miniature Perfection: Individually portioned for a delightful presentation.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Makes: About 12 to 16 Pasticciotti

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) cold butter, cubed
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• A pinch of salt

For the Pastry Cream:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• Amarena cherries in syrup, as needed

Method

Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry:

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and mix in the confectioners’ sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
2. Add the cold butter and work quickly with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs.
3. Add the egg and knead gently until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Pastry Cream:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan with the lemon zest and vanilla extract until just boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until frothy.
3. Add the cornstarch, mixing until smooth. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and let cool completely.

Assemble the Pasticciotti:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Cut out rounds and press them into buttered and floured molds, trimming excess dough.
4. Fill each mold about 3/4 full with the prepared pastry cream.
5. Add a few Amarena cherries to the center of each pastry.
6. Use the remaining pastry dough to create thin strips and arrange them in a lattice pattern over the top.

Bake:

1. Place the pasticciotti in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
2. Let them cool completely in the molds before carefully removing.

Tips for Success

• Work Quickly with the Dough: Keep the butter cold to ensure a flaky crust.
• Prevent Lumps in Custard: Constant stirring and gradual mixing of milk into the egg mixture are key.
• Use Quality Cherries: Amarena cherries in syrup provide the best flavor and contrast.

Nutritional Facts (Per Pasticciotto)

These Pasticciotti are a true taste of Southern Italy, offering a delightful blend of buttery crust, creamy custard, and sweet cherries.

Serve with coffee or tea for a perfect Italian dessert experience. Buon appetito!