Torta della Nonna – Italian Grandma’s Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pastry Cream

• Heat milk in a saucepan until steaming.
• In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
• Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
• Return to the heat and cook, stirring, until thick and creamy.
• Stir in vanilla and lemon zest (if using). Cover with plastic wrap (directly on the surface) and chill.

2. Prepare the Dough

• In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, butter, egg, baking powder, and salt until crumbly.
• Press ⅔ of the dough into a greased 9-inch tart or springform pan.
• Spread the chilled pastry cream evenly over the crust.

3. Assemble & Bake

• Crumble the remaining dough over the filling and sprinkle with pine nuts.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, until golden.

4. Cool & Serve

• Let cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfection 🔥

✔ Chill the pastry cream well – Ensures a firm filling and prevents a soggy crust.
✔ Keep butter cold – For a flakier, more tender dough.
✔ No food processor? Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour.

Final Verdict: A Slice of Italian Tradition!

Creamy, nutty, and delicately sweet, this Torta della Nonna is pure comfort—a nostalgic dessert that tastes like a warm hug from Grandma. Perfect with an espresso or as the star of your dessert table! Buon appetito! 🇮🇹