Torta della Nonna: A Tuscan Delicacy
History:
Torta della Nonna, which translates to “Grandmother’s Cake,” is a traditional Italian dessert originating from the Tuscany region. Its exact origins are unknown, but it is believed to have been created in the early 1900s by Tuscan grandmothers who used simple and readily available ingredients.
Preparation:
Torta della Nonna is characterized by its unique combination of flavors and textures. It consists of a soft and fluffy pastry base topped with a creamy custard filling and crunchy pine nuts. The preparation involves several steps:
1. Pastry Base:
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Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Instructions:
- Combine the flour and sugar in a large bowl.
- Add the cubed butter and use your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Custard Filling:
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Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the eggs and vanilla extract.
3. Assembly:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pastry dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough to a greased 9-inch pie plate.
- Trim the edges and crimp them.
- Pour the custard filling into the pastry shell.
- Sprinkle the pine nuts evenly over the custard.
4. Baking:
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the pastry base.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the custard filling for extra warmth.
- Toasted pine nuts will enhance the crunchiness of the topping.
- Serve Torta della Nonna with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Buon Appetito!
