Grandma's Cake
Grandma's Cake - Torta della nonna
I present to you a recipe that blends tradition with love, a recipe that will remind you of the lavish meals from your childhood. Torta della nonna, also known as "Grandma's Cake," is a classic Italian dessert that will sweeten your days and warm your heart. It features a tender crust and a delicate vanilla cream, perfect for any occasion, especially for special days. This recipe has been tried even in the smallest kitchens, just like mine when I prepared it for my husband's birthday in a dark, yet emotionally charged kitchen filled with memories.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 120 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 170 g sugar
- 1 whole egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1 pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (preferably organic for a more intense flavor)
For the cream:
- 750 ml milk (preferably whole for a richer cream)
- 8 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g flour or cornstarch (cornstarch gives a finer texture)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
Preparation:
1. Making the cream:
To achieve the perfect vanilla cream, start by heating the milk in a saucepan along with the lemon zest and vanilla sugar. It's important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. While the milk heats, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar in a bowl until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale yellow. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which will make the cream lighter.
2. Add the flour or cornstarch:
Once the egg yolks have lightened in color, add the flour or cornstarch and mix well. It's crucial to avoid lumps, so make sure the ingredients are well combined.
3. Combining the ingredients:
When the milk is almost boiling, gradually pour it over the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly. After adding all the milk, return the mixture to the heat and cook until it thickens, stirring continuously. Once the cream has thickened, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool completely.
4. Preparing the dough:
Sift the flour with the baking powder into a large bowl. Add the soft butter, lemon zest, whole egg, egg yolk, sugar, and salt. Knead until you obtain a smooth dough ball. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This step will help achieve a tender crust.
5. Assembling the cake:
Once the dough has chilled, preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out about two-thirds of the dough on a lightly floured surface, forming a circle that will cover the base and sides of the cake pan. Place the dough in the greased and floured pan. Pour the vanilla cream over the crust, and you can cut the remaining rolled-out dough into strips or various shapes to place on top of the cream. This adds a rustic and appealing look to the cake.
6. Baking:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until it turns golden. Once done, let it cool in the pan, then carefully remove it. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
The story behind the recipe:
Torta della nonna is a symbol of love and family tradition. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, with deep roots in the culinary culture of many families. It is a cake often prepared by grandmothers for their grandchildren, bringing smiles and unforgettable moments around the table.
Helpful tips:
- Use quality ingredients, especially butter and eggs, to achieve an authentic taste.
- Experiment with various flavors, such as orange zest or almond extract, to personalize the cream.
- You can add fresh fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use partially skimmed milk?
While whole milk provides a richer cream, you can use semi-skimmed milk, but the texture will be less creamy.
2. How can I store the cake?
Torta della nonna keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it's better to make it fresh before serving to enjoy the texture.
Recipes and drinks that pair well:
Torta della nonna pairs perfectly with a strong espresso coffee or herbal tea. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine can complement the delicate flavors of the cake beautifully.
In conclusion, Torta della nonna is more than just a dessert; it's an occasion to bring family together, create memories, and savor unforgettable moments. Don't hesitate to try this recipe at home and enjoy the final result, which will surely be appreciated by everyone! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: For the dough: 300 g flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 120 g butter, 170 g sugar, 1 egg + 1 yolk, a pinch of salt, grated zest of 1 lemon. For the cream: 750 ml milk, 8 egg yolks, 200 g sugar, 100 g flour or starch, 1 packet vanilla sugar, zest of 1/2 lemon, powdered sugar.
