Torta Della Nonna: A Grandmother’s Delight

Torta della nonna, or “Grandma’s Cake” in English, is a classic Italian dessert cherished for generations. This simple yet flavorful cake is characterized by its shortcrust pastry base, creamy custard filling, and a sprinkle of pine nuts. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a beloved treat for both young and old.

Ingredients

• For the Pastry
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

• For the Custard
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

• Combine the flour, butter, sugar, and egg yolk in a large bowl.
• Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.  
• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Custard

• In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, egg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.  

Assemble the Cake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
• Place the pastry in a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges.
• Pour the cooled custard into the pastry-lined dish.
• Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts evenly over the custard.

Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set.
• Let cool completely before serving.

Tips

• For a more flavorful pastry, add a pinch of salt to the dough.
• To toast the pine nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
• If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with almonds or walnuts.
• Torta della nonna is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Torta della nonna, a traditional Italian dessert, offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Its shortcrust pastry base, creamy custard filling, and toasted pine nuts make it a truly satisfying treat. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, and it continues to be cherished by families and friends around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, torta della nonna is a recipe worth trying. So, gather your ingredients and indulge in this timeless Italian delicacy.