Crostare

Crostare is a type of Italian tart. It typically features a shortcrust pastry base that is either filled or topped with various ingredients, often fruit or custard. The pastry itself is usually quite firm and crumbly, designed to hold its shape and provide a sturdy foundation for the filling.

The term "crostare" can refer to a specific dessert or a broader category of tarts made in this style. Common fillings include jam, fruit compotes, ricotta cheese, or a combination thereof. Some crostare may be made with a lattice-top pastry, where strips of dough are woven over the filling. Others are open-faced. The preparation often involves blind baking the pastry shell before adding the filling, which helps to prevent a soggy bottom.

The exact origins of crostare are somewhat varied, with similar tart-like pastries found throughout Italian regional cuisine. They are generally considered rustic desserts, often enjoyed as a snack or at the end of a meal. The simplicity of its ingredients and preparation makes it a popular choice for home baking. The term itself derives from the Italian word "crosta," meaning crust.