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    Home » Ingredients » Fruits

    Crostata Di Marmellata Recipe (Italian Jam Tart)

    Published: Mar 21, 2021 · Modified: Mar 24, 2025. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

    Recipe Jump to Video
    This Italian Crostata recipe is a sweet shortcrust pastry pie filled with fresh fruits or jam. It is easy to make and store. It is often eaten at breakfast, as a snack, or served at the end of an informal meal as a dessert. In Italy, you can buy it in most bakeries and pastry shops.
    crostata with jam pin
    crostata with jam pin
    crostata with jam pin
    crostata with jam pin
    This Italian Crostata recipe is a sweet shortcrust pastry pie filled with fresh fruits or jam. It is easy to make and store. It is often eaten at breakfast, as a snack, or served at the end of an informal meal as a dessert. In Italy, you can buy it in most bakeries and pastry shops.

    Crostata di Marmellata, a traditional Italian jam tart, is a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. This rustic treat boasts a delicate, buttery shortcrust pastry dough known as pasta frolla, which serves as a staple in Italian baking and pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors of various jams and preserves. Home to a crisscross lattice design, the Crostata is an artful and inviting dessert that impresses as much with its appearance as with its taste.

    Crostata di marmellata served with homemade liqueurs
    Jump to:
    • What does Crostata mean?
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Variation: crostatine
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Storage and Shelf Life
    • FAQ
    • More fruits desserts you may like
    • 📋 Crostata Di Marmellata Recipe (Italian Jam Tart)

    You'll find that this Italian crostata is a versatile treat that adapts to your personal preferences.

    You can create a personalized tart that satisfies your cravings by experimenting with different jams.

    Whether it's apricot, cherry, or even homemade jam, the options are endless.

    As one of the most popular desserts in Italy, this jam tart is perfect for a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or an elegant finish to a meal.

    You can buy it in Italy in most bakeries and pastry shops, but homemade crostata is much better and a great way to use up open jam jars.

    To achieve the perfect crostata, a well-executed pasta frolla recipe is key.

    The dough should be sweet and tender, lightly bound by baking powder to offer a subtle softness.

    You can also find more traditional Italian recipes: Italian fruit cake, Sicilian cannoli, pastiera Napoletana.

    small italian crostata di marmellata called crostatine

    What does Crostata mean?

    Crostata in Italian means crispy crust, and since it refers to any pie or tart, you should always specify its filling: Crostata di frutta, fruit tart; or Crostata di marmellata, jam tart.

    Fruits and jam are the most common fillings, but Crostata can also be filled with chocolate, nutella, ricotta or custard.

    Jam crostata is the most commonly made, as it is very easy to make at home and does not require any planning.

    As long as you have the ingredients to make the shortcrust pastry (pasta frolla) and some jam, it can be made at the last minute and will last for the week.

    It is the perfect dessert to use up opened jars of jam or marmalade, it can be stored for a long time and is easy to eat on the go.

    Pasta frolla can be sweet or savory, to find out more you can read the recipe: savory and sweet pasta frolla

    Lifting a slice of crostata from the tart

    Ingredients

    This crostata is made with a crispy, crumbly, fluffy sweet shortcrust pastry, an old classic pastry recipe that uses baking powder.

    A crumbly Pasta Frolla is the foundation of a good crostata dough.

    These are the ingredients you need:

    • All-purpose flour or, ideally, Italian 00 flour. Italian 00 flour has a finer texture and will provide a smoother, more tender crust.
    • Cold, unsalted butter. Using cold butter helps to create a flaky texture in the finished crust.
    • Granulated sugar for sweetness and to help the crust achieve a beautiful golden brown color
    • A pinch of salt is essential for enhancing the flavors in your dough. Balancing the sweetness will give you a more well-rounded tasting experience.
    • A whole egg is required to bind the ingredients and provide structure to your crostata dough.
    • The baking powder adds to the pastry base a light and fluffy texture
    • To give an additional fresh citrus flavor and aroma you can add orange or lemon zest to the pastry.
    • Jam or marmalade: the choice is crucial. Go for a homemade or good quality fruit preserves that complements your crostata dough's flavors. There are many possibilities, such as apricot, mixed berries, or even fig.

    See recipe card for the quantity

    Ingredient for pasta frolla

    Instructions

    Making the dough

    1. First mix all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, and baking powder
    2. Then add all the wet ingredients
    3. Mix until the dough is formed
    4. If the dough is too warm, wrap it in cling and store it in the fridge for few minutes. Cold dough is easier to roll.
    5. Put the dough on a well-floured surface and cut ½, keep ½ of the pastry aside for the top
    6. Roll the rest of the pastry to make the base of the pie
    making the pasta frolla

    Preparing the base

    This quantity of dough is enough for a 9 in - 22 cm D / 1 in - 2.8 cm H baking pan with removable bottom.

    1. Butter and flour the bottom of the pan and its sides
    2. With a rolling pin, roll out the dough, checking the size of the pastry vs the size of the pan
    3. Once the pastry is large enough, lay it on the baking pan
    4. Press the dough into the pan
    5. Trim the edges
    6. Pierce the pastry with a fork
    7. Pour the jam and spread it evenly
    preparing the base

    Choosing the Right jam

    When it comes to selecting the perfect jam, there are a few factors to consider.

    First, decide whether you want to use store-bought jam or homemade jam.

    Although store-bought jam can offer convenience and consistent quality, homemade jam allows you to control the ingredients and tweak the taste to your liking.

    If you opt for a store-bought jam, select one that is high-quality and has the right balance of sweetness to complement the tart.

    On the other hand, if you decide to go with homemade jam, explore different jam recipes to determine which one best suits your preferences.

    The type of fruit you choose for your marmalade also plays a crucial role in the final flavor profile of your Crostata di Marmellata.

    Here are some popular fruit jams to consider:

    • Apricot jam: Sweet and slightly tart, apricot jam is a classic choice for this jam tart and pairs wonderfully with the buttery crust.
    • Raspberry jam: A popular alternative, raspberry jam adds a tangy flavor to the tart, creating a delightful contrast.
    • Strawberry jam: Strawberry jam offers a familiar, comforting taste that is universally loved;
    • Blackberry jam: For those who prefer a more robust and mildly tart marmalade, blackberry jam is an excellent choice.

    You can also try one of my homemade jam recipes: apricot jam, peach jam, concord grape jam, bitter orange marmalade.

    Ultimately, the right marmalade depends on your personal taste preferences.

    crostata made with homemade jams

    Preparing the lattice top

    1. On a lightly floured surface, cut the remaining pastry into 8 parts
    2. Make 8 strips with each part.
      • 2 Longer strips
      • 4 Medium strips
      • 4 Shorter strips
    Preparing the lattice top
    1. To create the lattice pattern, place the 2 long strips as a cross in the center
    2. Place the 4 medium strips next all around
    3. Last place at the end of the 4 short strips
    4. Brush the top with an egg wash
    5. Bake in the middle rack of the oven for 35 minutes at 355 F - 180 C until the pastry turns golden brown and the jam is bubbling

    Hint: save the remaining dough for later use, do not try to fit it all in the tart

    finishing the crostata and baking it

    Variation: crostatine

    A fun variation of this tart recipe is to bake individual small crostate, in Italian called crostatine: small jam tarts.

    They are a fun alternative for a picnic or a potluck; you fill them with different jams and you can make different top shapes.

    To make these small crostatine I used these Mini Pans Set 4 and a cookie cutter for the top.

    small crostatine di marmellata

    Serving Suggestions

    Crostata is easy to make at home and requires no planning.

    As long as you have the ingredients to make the shortcrust pastry (pasta frolla) and some jam, it can be made at the last minute and will last for the week.

    It is the perfect dessert to use up opened jars of jam or marmalade.

    Afternoon tea

    A crumbly crostata or crostatina is a tasty accompaniment to coffee or tea.

    Its sweet jam filling and tender pastry will pair beautifully with a hot cup of your preferred beverage, transforming any ordinary afternoon into a delightful break.

    After a meal

    Another option is to serve it as a dessert after a meal.

    To make it more special, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

    The cool creaminess will complement the warm, fruity flavors of the tart, creating a perfect harmony of tastes and textures.

    Italian Breakfast

    Italian often have it for breakfast as it is easy to eat on the go, perfect for a quick bite with an espresso.

    It is a practical snack for children going to school or served for breakfast with a cup of cocoa.

    Crostata served with coffee

    Brunch

    For a brunch treat, you can serve a slice of crostata with fresh fruit, like berries or citrus segments.

    This will freshen your palate and add a beautiful pop of color to your table.

    Alternatively, pair it with a refreshing yogurt or a creamy ricotta cheese as a delicious contrast to the sweet jam filling of the tart.

    Picnic or potluck

    At a picnic or potluck, I like to bring a selection of crostatine, place them on a decorative platter, and surround it with an assortment of cookies, pastries, or fresh fruit.

    This will make an appealing and inviting spread for your guests to enjoy while chatting and relaxing outdoors.

    As they do not need refrigeration, they are perfect also for warmer days.

    crostatine on a cutting board

    For a special treat, serve crostata with homemade liqueurs.

    You can find a selection of liqueurs in the article: Homemade Italian liqueurs

    serving crostata with homemade liqueurs

    Storage and Shelf Life

    Properly storing your Crostata di Marmellata is important to preserve its freshness and flavor.

    To store your crostata, follow these simple steps:

    1. Cool the crostata completely: Allow your freshly baked crostata to cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make the crust soggy.
    2. Wrap it well: Once cooled, wrap your crostata tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents it from drying out and helps maintain its texture and taste.
    3. Store at room temperature: Place your wrapped crostata in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard is ideal for this purpose. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as the cold can cause the crust to become soggy.

    As for shelf life, Crostata di Marmellata can last for up to 4-5 days at room temperature.

    However, the freshness and texture of the crust might start to decline after a couple of days.

    To enjoy your crostata at its best, consuming it within 2-3 days of baking is recommended.

    Freshly baked crostate

    If you have any leftover crostata and want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

    To freeze:

    1. Slice it: Cut the crostata into individual portions, making it easier to thaw and serve later.
    2. Wrap each slice individually: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly wrap each slice.
    3. Store in airtight containers or zip-top freezer bags: Place the wrapped slices in airtight containers or sealed freezer bags to protect them from freezer burn.
    4. Label and date: Write the date and contents on the container or freezer bag, so you remember when it was frozen and what's inside.

    Frozen Jam Crostata can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    To defrost, simply remove the desired amount of slices and let them thaw at room temperature for approximately 1-2 hours before serving.

    Enjoy your crostata as if it were freshly baked!

    slice of crostata served on a dish

    FAQ

    How does a crostata differ from a pie?

    A crostata is an Italian tart made with a shortcrust pastry called pasta frolla, filled with jam or fruit preserves. Unlike a pie, a crostata has a more crumbly and buttery crust with a lattice design on top, whereas a pie typically has a flaky crust with a complete layer of pastry covering the filling.

    More fruits desserts you may like

    You can find more desserts made with fruits and jam here below:

    • Easy Italian Pineapple Sorbet Recipe With Prosecco
      Easy Italian Pineapple Sorbet Recipe With Prosecco
    • Traditional Homemade Strawberry Gelato Recipe
      Homemade Strawberry Gelato Recipe With White Chocolate
    • Chestnut Paste Recipe Sweetened and Unsweetened
      Chestnut Paste Recipe Sweetened and Unsweetened
    • Italian Fruit Tart With Custard Crostata di frutta
      Italian Fruit Tart With Custard Crostata di frutta

    If you are making this Crostata di Marmellata, leave your comment below I would like to hear from you. You can find more delicious ideas if you FOLLOW ME on Facebook, YouTube, or sign up to my newsletter.

    Italian Crostata Recipe

    📋 Crostata Di Marmellata Recipe (Italian Jam Tart)

    5 from 6 votes
    Laura Tobin
    Servings 10 people
    Prep Time 25 minutes mins
    Cook Time 35 minutes mins
    Total Time 1 hour hr
    Print Recipe Save Saved! Pin Recipe
    Crostata di Marmellata, a traditional Italian jam tart, is a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. This rustic treat boasts a delicate, buttery shortcrust pastry dough known as pasta frolla, which serves as a staple in Italian baking and pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors of various jams and preserves. Home to a crisscross lattice design, the Crostata is an artful and inviting dessert that impresses as much with its appearance as with its taste.
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Equipment

    • Measuring mugs
    • Mini Measuring Set
    • KitchenAid Mixer
    • Silicone Pastry Mat
    • Rolling pin
    • Quiche Pan with RB

    Ingredients
     

    • ⅔ cup butter at room temperature
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 4 cup flour
    • 3 fresh eggs
    • 2 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1 pinch salt
    • 1 jar peach jam See my homemade

    Instructions
     

    Making the dough

    • First mix all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, and baking powder
      1 cup sugar, 4 cup flour, 2 tablespoon baking powder, 1 pinch salt
    • Then add all the wet ingredients
      ⅔ cup butter at room temperature, 3 fresh eggs
    • Mix until the dough is formed
    • If the dough is too warm, wrap it in cling and store it in the fridge for few minutes. Cold dough is easier to roll.
    • Put the dough on a well-floured surface and cut ½, keep ½ of the pastry aside for the top
    • Roll the rest of the pastry to make the base of the pie

    Preparing the base

    • Butter and flour the baking pan
    • Check the size of the pastry vs the size of the pan
    • Once the pastry is large enough, lay it on the baking pan
    • Press the dough into the pan
    • Trim the edges
    • Pierce the pastry with a fork
    • Pour the jam and spread it evenly
      1 jar peach jam

    Preparing the top of the Crostata

    • Cut the remaining pastry into 8 parts
    • Make 8 strips with each part: 2 Longer strips, 4 Medium strips, 4 Shorter strips

    Baking the Crostata

    • Place the 2 long strips as a cross in the center
    • Place the 4 medium strips next all around
    • Last place at the end the 4 short strips
    • Bake in the oven for 35 minutes at 355 F - 180 C
    • Crostata should be served at room temperature

    Video

    Notes

    • The butter should be at room temperature
    • If the pastry is too warm, place it in the fridge for few minutes. Cold dough is easier to roll
    • You can use any jam you like, even nutella

    Nutrition

    Calories: 389kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 7gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 134mgPotassium: 318mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 123mgIron: 3mg
    Tried this recipe?Please consider Leaving a Review!
    important notes on ingredients

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Beth @ Binky's Culinary Carnival

      May 30, 2017 at 6:47 pm

      Oh, Laura, that looks delicious! I found it Foodgawker! Lovely!

      Reply
      • Laura

        May 31, 2017 at 3:31 am

        WOW, my first one !!

        Reply
    2. Marsha | Marsha's Baking Addiction

      August 06, 2017 at 9:06 am

      5 stars
      What a gorgeous, delicious looking pie!

      Reply
    3. Bintu - Recipes From A Pantry

      August 06, 2017 at 8:31 am

      5 stars
      This looks super easy to make, and what a treat too! I think the kids would love this

      Reply
    4. Dannii

      August 06, 2017 at 9:30 am

      5 stars
      What a great way to use up peaches before the season it out. This looks delicious.

      Reply
    5. David @ Cooking Chat

      August 06, 2017 at 11:41 am

      5 stars
      tasty summer dessert! Like the ideas for variations, including have kids help to decorate it.

      Reply
    6. Lucy

      August 06, 2017 at 10:47 am

      5 stars
      What a delicious way to use homemade jam! I love peach desserts, so I will definitely have to try this out. And I will let my son decorate the top 🙂

      Reply
    7. Emily

      August 06, 2017 at 10:49 am

      5 stars
      I love crostata, with homemade peach jam I bet this is absolutely delicious!

      Reply
    5 from 6 votes

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    Laura Giunta Tobin

    Hi, I’m Laura. Welcome to my blog! While many talk about Italian food, I’ve lived it firsthand. Here, I share real Italian home cooking, just as it’s made in Italy. Won’t you join me?

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