Delicious Italian Cherry Crostata Recipe
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Craving a delightful dessert that showcases the vibrant taste of cherries? This Italian cherry crostata is the answer! It’s a rustic, free-form tart that’s not only easy to make but also a showstopper for any gathering. With a buttery, flaky crust enveloping sweet and tart cherry filling, this crostata is bound to impress your family and friends.
Picture this: a slice of warm crostata topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the sweet cherry juices oozing out with each bite. It’s a dessert that brings together simplicity and elegance, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can swap out cherries for other fruits depending on the season, but let me tell you, the combination of cherries and almond extract is simply divine.
The Allure of Cherry Crostata
This Italian cherry crostata captures the essence of rustic desserts, boasting a golden brown crust that tempts the eyes. The crimped edges add a charming touch, while the vibrant red cherries peeking through promise a delightful taste sensation.
Each slice reveals a luscious filling that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. The allure of this dessert is undeniable, making it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. Serve it warm for the best experience, where the cherry juices mingle beautifully with a scoop of ice cream.
A Rustic Experience
The simplicity of the crostata reflects its rustic roots. Made with a buttery crust that crumbles just right, it’s easy to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating such a dish. Its free-form style means that each crostata will have a unique character, making it feel homemade and special.
Beyond the visual appeal, the texture plays a significant role. The flaky crust contrasts beautifully with the juicy cherry filling, offering a satisfying bite that invites you to savor each moment. Sharing this dessert becomes an experience in itself, as friends and family gather around to enjoy a slice.
Seasonal Variations
While cherries are the star here, this crostata offers flexibility throughout the year. Seasonal fruits can easily replace cherries, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen. Think about the bright flavors of peaches in summer or the comforting tastes of apples in fall.
However, the combination of cherries and almond extract remains a standout. The almond adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a classic choice that’s hard to beat. Each variation transforms the crostata while still honoring its rustic charm.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing the cherry crostata with complementary flavors elevates the dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess, while a dollop of whipped cream brings lightness. For a more indulgent touch, consider drizzling warm chocolate or caramel sauce over the top.
Serving it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine can transform your meal into a memorable occasion. These pairings enhance the flavors and create a delightful balance between sweet and sophisticated.
Tips for Success
Creating the perfect cherry crostata involves attention to detail, especially with the crust. Make sure the butter is chilled to achieve that flaky texture. When preparing the filling, letting the cherries sit with the sugar allows the juices to develop, enriching the flavor.
Don’t rush the chilling process for the dough. Allowing it to rest in the fridge ensures it rolls out smoothly and maintains its shape when baked. The final step of sprinkling coarse sugar on the crust not only adds a beautiful finish but also enhances the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting the crostata can be just as delightful as making it. A dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance, and serving it with fresh cherries on the side offers a vibrant touch. Using a rustic fork enhances the experience, inviting guests to dig in.
To make it even more captivating, consider serving it on a wooden board, emphasizing the rustic elements of this delightful dish. Each slice becomes a centerpiece, drawing attention and sparking conversation among your guests.
The Perfect Italian Cherry Crostata

This cherry crostata features a buttery crust that crumbles perfectly, paired with a luscious cherry filling that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and tartness. It’s a satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries pitted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract. Mix well and set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Assemble the Crostata: Spoon the cherry filling into the center of the rolled dough, leaving a border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as needed.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the exposed dough with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
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