I’m so excited to share this delightful recipe for Crostata glassata alle visciole! This beautiful Italian cherry tart always takes me back to my summers spent in Italy, where every meal seemed to end on a sweet note. There’s something so magical about sitting outside at a café, enjoying a slice of this lovely tart with a steaming cup of coffee, while the warm breeze carries the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. It’s pure bliss!
This dessert isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; its shiny, glazed finish makes it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Imagine impressing your friends and family with a homemade dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks like a work of art (not to mention the aroma wafting through your kitchen!). Trust me, every bite of this Crostata glassata alle visciole takes me right back to those sun-kissed Italian afternoons. So, let’s dive right in!
What’s in Crostata glassata alle visciole?
Flour: This is the foundation of our buttery crust. I love using all-purpose flour for its versatility, but you can try different varieties if you’re feeling adventurous!
Sugar: A hint of sweetness in the crust and filling! Granulated sugar does the trick, but feel free to swap in some powdered sugar for a smoother texture in the dough.
Butter: Ah, the key to a flaky and rich crust! Make sure it’s unsalted. I always use high-quality butter because it makes such a difference in flavor.
Eggs: These little beauties help bind the dough together and add richness. I prefer large eggs for consistency.
Sour Cherries: The star of the show! Their tartness is what makes this tart so special. If you can’t find fresh sour cherries, using frozen ones works just fine – just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Glaze Ingredients: A mixture of sugar and water, boiled until thickened, is what gives our tart that beautiful mirror-like finish. You can adjust the sugar to taste!
Is Crostata glassata alle visciole Good for You?
Well, let’s be real – this isn’t exactly a health food, but it’s a delightful indulgence!
Flour: While it provides energy in the form of carbohydrates, traditional white flour doesn’t offer much in terms of fiber or vitamins. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you could try using whole wheat flour, keeping in mind it will change the texture slightly.
Sugar: Sure, it adds sweetness, but too much of it isn’t the best for our bodies. Moderation is always key!
Butter: High in saturated fats, butter can be enjoyed in moderation. Butter adds richness and flavor that just can’t be replaced.
Sour Cherries: Now, here’s where we can feel a little better about indulging! Sour cherries are packed with antioxidants and may even provide anti-inflammatory benefits. A perfect excuse to enjoy more of this tart, right?
Pair this dessert with coffee, and you’ll surely be left with a happy heart and satisfied taste buds!
Ingredients
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for the glaze)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups sour cherries, pitted (fresh or thawed from frozen)
– Water (for the glaze)
This recipe serves about 8, depending on how generous you are with the slices!
How to Make Crostata glassata alle visciole?
1. **Make the Dough**: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add in the flour until a dough forms.
2. **Chill the Dough**: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up and be easier to roll out.
3. **Prepare the Filling**: Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the sour cherries with some sugar (to taste) and set aside.
4. **Roll the Dough**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). On a floured surface, roll out about two-thirds of the dough to fit your tart pan. Don’t worry if it breaks a bit; you can patch it right up in the pan!
5. **Add the Filling**: Pour the cherry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
6. **Cover the Tart**: Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips or shapes to create a lattice or design on top of the cherries.
7. **Bake**: Place your tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
8. **Prepare the Glaze**: While the tart is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil until it thickens slightly.
9. **Glaze the Tart**: Once the tart has cooled a little, brush the glaze over the top for that stunning shine!
10. **Serve**: Slice it up and serve with a lovely cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy that beautiful combination of flavors!
A Glorious Finish!
Feel free to play with the filling – mix in some other fruits, or maybe add a splash of almond extract for a delightful twist. And if you’re a chocolate lover, drizzling a little melted chocolate over the glaze can never hurt!
Trust me, once you make this Crostata glassata alle visciole, you’ll want to whip it up for every occasion. So go on, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear about your cooking adventures. Happy baking!
