No-Bake Crostata (Italian Tart)
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
This delightful no-bake crostata is a perfect dessert for those who want to indulge in a sweet, refreshing treat without having to turn on the oven. The rich, creamy filling paired with a buttery biscuit base is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Top it with fresh fruit for a burst of color and flavor that elevates the tart into a beautiful, summer-perfect dessert.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 130g |
| Digestive Biscuits | 270g |
| Fresh Liquid Cream | 500g |
| Vanilla Bean Pod | 1 |
| Sugar | 75g |
| Gelatin Sheets | 8g |
| Fresh Fruit (e.g., strawberries, apricots, kiwi, banana) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Fat | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 28g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base
- Start by preparing the base of the crostata. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Once melted, remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In the meantime, place the digestive biscuits into a food processor. Pulse until they are broken down into fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted butter into the biscuit crumbs, stirring until they are well combined and the crumbs are fully coated. The mixture should have a wet sand-like consistency.
- Choose a 23.5 cm tart pan with a removable bottom (or a springform pan if you donβt have a tart pan). Press the biscuit mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and firm up for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
- While the base is chilling, place the gelatin sheets in a bowl of cold water and leave them to soak for about 10 minutes to soften.
- Pour the fresh cream into a saucepan. Heat the cream over low heat until it begins to steam and is close to boiling. Be careful not to let it come to a full boil, as it could separate.
- Slice the vanilla bean pod lengthwise with a knife and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to the cream, stirring gently to infuse the flavor.
- Add the sugar to the cream mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Once the cream is hot and the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Squeeze out the softened gelatin sheets and add them to the cream, whisking vigorously until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
- Allow the cream mixture to cool slightly at room temperature, then transfer it to a mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the cream to prevent a skin from forming. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge for about 30 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Crostata
- Once the cream mixture has thickened but is still pourable, remove the tart shell from the refrigerator.
- Carefully pour the cream mixture into the biscuit base, filling it almost to the top. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the top, if necessary.
- Place the tart back in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 3 hours, or until fully firm.
Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Fruit Topping
- While the tart is setting, prepare the fresh fruit for the topping. Choose fruits that are in season, such as strawberries, apricots, kiwi, and banana. Wash and cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
- Once the crostata is fully set, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Gently arrange the fresh fruit on top of the tart in an aesthetically pleasing pattern. Feel free to get creative with your arrangement!
Step 5: Serve
- Once decorated with fruit, your no-bake crostata is ready to be served. Slice it carefully and enjoy the smooth, creamy filling with the crunchy, buttery biscuit base and the refreshing taste of fresh fruit.
Tips for Perfecting Your No-Bake Crostata:
- Gelatin Tip: Ensure that the gelatin is completely dissolved in the cream mixture. If not, you might end up with bits of gelatin in the filling.
- Fruit Choices: Choose a variety of colorful fruits to make the tart visually appealing. Seasonal fruits are a great choice for maximum freshness and flavor.
- Chilling Time: Be patient and allow the tart to fully chill and set. The longer it sits in the fridge, the better it will hold together when sliced.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Crostata:
This no-bake crostata is the perfect dessert for a warm day when you donβt want to turn on the oven. It combines the rich, smooth texture of the cream filling with the crunchy, buttery biscuit crust, making it irresistible. Plus, the addition of fresh fruit provides a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the tart. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, serving it at a holiday meal, or simply treating yourself, this crostata is sure to impress!
For a fun twist, try experimenting with different fruits or even adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or honey over the top for added decadence.
