Italian Grandma’s Cake

A Traditional Creamy Delight with Pastry Charm

This timeless Italian dessert features a buttery shortcrust, luscious vanilla pastry cream, and a golden finish. It’s perfect for celebrations, cozy evenings, or a midweek treat with tea.

A creamy, golden square of perfection — flaky crust, silky custard, and old-world charm in every bite.

 Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• 250g all-purpose flour

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• 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 75g granulated sugar

• 1 whole egg

• 1 tsp baking powder

• A pinch of salt

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• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, but highly recommended)

For the Pastry Cream:

• 500 ml whole milk

• 4 egg yolks

• 100g sugar

• 40g cornstarch

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• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Pine nuts (for crunch and tradition)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Shortcrust Pastry

• In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.

• Add cold butter and rub with fingers until it resembles crumbs.

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• Add egg and lemon zest, knead until a soft dough forms.

• Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Pastry Cream

• Heat milk in a saucepan until just about to boil.

• In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.

• Slowly pour hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

• Return to saucepan, stir on medium heat until thickened.

• Stir in vanilla. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to avoid a skin.

3. Assemble the Cake

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Roll out ⅔ of the dough and line a greased tart pan.

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• Pour in the cooled pastry cream.

• Roll out remaining dough to cover the top and seal the edges.

• Sprinkle with pine nuts (optional).

4. Bake & Cool

• Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown.

• Let cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Pair with espresso, lemon tea, or a glass of sweet wine.

• Garnish with lemon peel or mint leaves for a refreshing aroma

Tips & Troubleshooting

Crust too hard?

• Don’t over-knead. Keep the dough cold before baking.

Cream too runny?

• Ensure it thickens well on the stove.

• Let it cool fully before assembling the cake.

Want extra flavor?

• Add a splash of Limoncello or a pinch of orange zest to the pastry cream.

 FAQs

1. Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze it?

Yes — but note, the custard may slightly change texture. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

3. Do I need to use pine nuts?

Not required! Swap for slivered almonds or skip entirely.

Final Thoughts

Torta della Nonna isn’t just dessert — it’s a delicious tradition filled with comfort and memories. From its flaky crust to the smooth custard, this Italian classic brings generations of love to your kitchen. Whether you serve it at a party or for yourself with coffee, it’s sure to become a favorite.