RICOTTA CROSTATA: A CLASSIC & OLD-FASHIONED ITALIAN RICOTTA CAKE

Ricotta Crostata is an ideal dessert for any occasion, great for both summer and winter.

A shortcrust pastry base with a delicious ricotta filling, very easy to make.

Let’s see the process together!.

Ricotta Crostata is a traditional Italian tart that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a creamy ricotta filling. Often flavored with hints of citrus, vanilla, or even chocolate, this dessert is a staple in Italian households, especially during holidays and family gatherings. Its rustic elegance and delightful flavors make it a perfect treat for any occasion.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a Ricotta Crostata, share tips for achieving the perfect texture, and suggest variations to suit your preferences.

Ricotta Crostata Recipe

Difficulty: medium

Prep. Times: 45 minutes

Cooking Times: 25 minutes

SERVINGS:4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2+3/8 cups of all purpose flour
• 1+1/4 cups of sugar
• 2/3 cup of butter
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 6 eggs
• 1/8 cup of candied orange and citron peel
• 1/8 cup of pine nuts
• 1/8 cup of raisins
• cinnamon powder to taste
• grated peel of 1 lemon
• powdered sugar

METHOD

On the pastry board, mix the flour with three egg yolks, 1/2 cup of sugar and the softened butter.

Cover the dough with a dishcloth and let it rest for half an hour.

In a bowl mix the crumbled ricotta with the remaining sugar, three egg yolks and a pinch of cinnamon powder.

Add a little grated lemon peel, chopped candied fruit, pine nuts, raisins softened in warm water and squeezed and finally, stirring gently, two egg whites beaten stiff.

Roll out the dough with a rolling pin and use one half to line a buttered and flour-dusted cake pan.

Place the ricotta mixture and top with the other half of the pastry.

Brush the surface with a little beaten egg white and bake the tart in a hot oven (350 F)  for about 25 minutes.

Dust with powdered sugar and serve!

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Crostata

1. Drain the ricotta: If your ricotta is watery, drain it in a cheesecloth-lined strainer for a few hours to avoid a soggy filling.
2. Chill the dough: Keeping the dough cold makes it easier to handle and results in a flakier crust.
3. Don’t overbake: Remove the crostata from the oven as soon as the crust is golden and the filling is set to maintain a creamy texture.
4. Decorate the lattice: Use cookie cutters to create decorative shapes for the top crust.

Variations of Ricotta Crostata

1. Chocolate Ricotta Crostata: Add cocoa powder to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the baked crostata.
2. Lemon Ricotta Crostata: Use lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy flavor.
3. Fruit-Topped Crostata: Add fresh fruit or jam on top of the filling before baking.
4. Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios over the filling for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee: Pair with an espresso or cappuccino for a true Italian experience.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato.
• For Brunch: Include as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and pastries.
• As a Gift: Wrap it in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Conclusion

Ricotta Crostata is a timeless Italian dessert that combines simple ingredients into a dish full of flavor and charm. With its creamy filling and rustic presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and experience the joy of baking a classic Italian tart that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!