Crostata di Marmellata is a classic Italian tart made with a rich, buttery crust and sweet fruit preserves. Its rustic charm and beautiful lattice design make it an inviting dessert or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Italian baking or a seasoned cook, this traditional recipe offers an easy yet elegant way to enjoy timeless flavors. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable depending on the jam or fruit preserves you have on hand.
Why You Will Love the Crostata di Marmellata Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this rustic Italian tart. From its simple ingredients to its timeless appeal, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.
- The buttery pasta frolla crust melts in your mouth and balances the sweet fruit filling.
- It’s incredibly versatile—use any fruit jam you love, from apricot to cherry.
- Its rustic lattice top gives it a beautiful, handmade look without complicated steps.
- This tart works for dessert, breakfast, or an afternoon coffee break.
- It stores well, making it perfect for make-ahead baking and sharing with family.
Ingredients You Will Need
These are the essential ingredients needed to prepare a traditional Crostata di Marmellata. Simple pantry staples come together to create a rustic and flavorful Italian jam tart.
- All-purpose (or 00) flour – about 300 g (2½ cups)
- Granulated sugar – 100 g (½ cup)
- Unsalted butter – 170 g (6 oz), room temperature
- Baking powder – 1 tsp
- Pinch of salt
- Lemon zest – from 1 lemon
- 1 large egg + 1 yolk
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- Fruit jam (apricot, strawberry, cherry) – ~370 g (13 oz)
How to Make Crostata di Marmellata
Follow these straightforward steps to make an authentic Crostata di Marmellata. Each component comes together to create a tasty golden tart with a tender texture.
Step 1: Make the pasta frolla dough
Cream butter with sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla. Mix in the egg and yolk. Stir in flour, salt, and baking powder to form a soft dough. Wrap and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
Step 2: Roll and line the crust
Roll out two-thirds of the dough and gently press it into a tart pan. Trim the edges and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This helps firm up the dough and prevents shrinking during baking.
Step 3: Fill with jam
Spread your favorite jam evenly across the tart shell, leaving a small border around the edges. Don’t overfill the tart to keep the lattice top clean and defined as it bakes.
Step 4: Create and apply the lattice top
Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into thin strips. Lay the strips across the jam in a crisscross pattern, gently pressing the edges to seal. Chill the assembled tart briefly before baking.
Step 5: Bake and cool
Bake the tart in a preheated oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 30–35 minutes. Let it cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Crostata di Marmellata
Ingredients
Method
- Cream butter with sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla. Mix in egg and yolk, then add flour, salt, and baking powder. Knead into a soft dough. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out ⅔ of the dough. Line a tart pan and trim edges. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm the base.
- Spread jam evenly inside the crust, leaving a small border. Avoid overfilling to maintain a neat lattice.
- Roll remaining dough, cut into thin strips, and layer in a crisscross pattern. Seal the edges gently. Chill again briefly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes or until golden. Cool fully before slicing.
Notes
Serving Tips for Crostata di Marmellata
This Italian jam tart is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a few easy serving ideas to suit every time of day.
- Enjoy slightly chilled or at room temperature for the perfect texture.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet, elegant finish.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, mascarpone, or vanilla gelato.
- Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or herbal tea for a classic touch.
- Slice into bars for a picnic or bake sale-friendly treat.
- Store covered in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving again.
Nutritional Benefits of Crostata di Marmellata
While Crostata di Marmellata is a sweet treat, it does offer a balance of nutrients. The crust contains protein from eggs and energy-boosting carbohydrates from flour and sugar. Fruit preserves can provide small amounts of fiber and vitamins, especially if you use jams with minimal added sugar.
Using lemon zest adds vitamin C, while homemade or low-sugar jams keep the tart healthier. Olive oil can be used in place of butter for a lighter version. In moderation, this dessert can be part of a well-rounded diet—especially when served alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.
Conclusion
Crostata di Marmellata brings a taste of traditional Italy to your kitchen with its golden crust and sweet jam filling. This timeless tart is ideal for any time of day, from morning coffee to evening dessert. It’s simple to prepare, visually stunning, and adaptable to your favorite preserves. Whether you’re baking for family or guests, this crostata is sure to become a beloved classic in your repertoire.