Authentic Torta della Nonna (Italian Grandma’s Custard Tart)
Bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen with this classic Torta della Nonna, a beloved dessert that has been passed down through generations. Meaning “Grandmother’s Cake,” this traditional Italian tart features a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pastry crust filled with silky vanilla custard and topped with golden pine nuts. Simple yet elegant, every slice delivers the perfect combination of creamy, crisp, and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt
For the Vanilla Custard Filling
2 cups (500ml) whole milk
4 egg yolks
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Topping
¼ cup pine nuts
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, warm the milk with the lemon zest until just steaming.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until thick and creamy.
Stir in the vanilla extract, transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and let cool completely.
2. Make the Pastry Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg, egg yolk, and lemon zest, then mix until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into two portions, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tart
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the larger portion of dough and line a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan.
Spread the cooled custard evenly over the crust.
Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the custard, sealing the edges gently.
Sprinkle the pine nuts evenly across the top.
4. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
5. Serve
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy with a cup of coffee, espresso, or tea for a truly authentic Italian dessert experience.
Rich, creamy, and beautifully nostalgic, this Torta della Nonna is the kind of dessert that turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
