Italian Grandma’s Cake (Torta della Nonna) 🍰🇮🇹


 

1. Make the Pastry Cream

  1. Heat milk until steaming. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch, then slowly pour in hot milk.

  2. Return to heat, stirring until thick. Add vanilla & lemon zest. Chill.

2. Prepare the Dough

  1. Pulse flour, sugar, butter, egg, baking powder, and salt in a food processor until crumbly.

  2. Press ⅔ dough into a greased 9-inch pan. Spread pastry cream over it.

3. Assemble & Bake

  1. Crumble remaining dough on top, sprinkle with pine nuts.

  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 mins until golden.

4. Cool & Serve

  • Dust with powdered sugar and slice when cooled.


Pro Tips for the Best Cake 🔥

✔ Chill pastry cream – Prevents soggy crust.
✔ Use cold butter – For flakier dough.
✔ No food processor? Cut butter into flour by hand.


Final Verdict: A Taste of Italy!

This Torta della Nonna is creamy, nutty, and perfectly sweet—a nostalgic treat that feels like a hug from Nonna.

Bake it today and savor la dolce vita! 😍