This Crostata di Marmellata is a timeless Italian dessert made with a delicate, buttery shortcrust pastry and a generous layer of fruity jam. Simple yet elegant, it’s the kind of dessert that feels just as perfect for a cozy afternoon coffee as it does for a special family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully easy, even if you’ve never made an Italian tart before. The dough comes together quickly, the filling uses pantry staples, and the lattice top gives the tart a beautiful homemade look without requiring advanced skills. You can customize it with your favorite jam, making it suitable for every season and personal taste. It’s light, not overly sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pasta frolla dough
all-purpose flour – 2 cups (250 g)
cold unsalted butter, cubed – 3/4 cup (170 g)
granulated white sugar – 1/3 cup (65 g)
large egg – 1
egg yolk – 1
vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
lemon zest – from 1 lemon
salt – a small pinch

For the filling
apricot jam – 1 3/4 cups (about 420 g)

For finishing
powdered sugar – for dusting, optional

Directions

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, cold butter, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix just until the dough comes together into a smooth ball. Do not overwork the dough.
3. Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap it, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out about two-thirds of the dough to roughly 1/8-inch thickness. Gently place it into a 9-inch tart pan and press it into the base and sides. Trim off excess dough.
6. Spread the apricot jam evenly over the pastry base.
7. Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips over the jam in a crisscross lattice pattern.
8. Bake for 32–34 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden and the jam is bubbling.
9. Let the tart cool completely before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 34 minutes
Total time: about 54 minutes

Variations

You can easily change the flavor of this tart by using different jams such as raspberry, strawberry, blackberry, cherry, or fig. For a citrus twist, add a little orange zest to the dough instead of lemon. You can also mix two jams together for a layered flavor effect.

Storage/Reheating

Store the crostata at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.
The dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, any smooth jam or preserve works well in this recipe. Choose your favorite flavor or what you have on hand.

Is homemade dough better than store-bought?

Homemade dough gives the best flavor and texture, but store-bought shortcrust pastry can be used if you are short on time.

Why does the dough need to chill?

Chilling helps the butter firm up, making the dough easier to roll and preventing shrinkage during baking.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, the crostata can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature until serving.

How do I keep the lattice strips from breaking?

If the dough becomes too soft, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes before cutting and shaping the strips.

Can I use chunky jam?

Smooth jam works best, but lightly mashed chunky jam can also be used if evenly spread.

Do I need a tart pan with a removable bottom?

It’s recommended for easy removal, but a regular tart or pie pan will also work.

Can I reduce the sugar in the dough?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar, especially if your jam is very sweet.

How do I know when the crostata is done?

The crust should be lightly golden, and the jam should be bubbling gently.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes, but let it cool first so the jam sets properly before slicing.

Conclusion

Crostata di Marmellata is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its tender crust, fruity filling, and classic lattice top, this Italian jam tart is perfect for everyday enjoyment or special occasions. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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