As far back as I can remember a Crostata was made for any Italian celebration in my home and most homes that, as a family, we visited.
Crostata, a flaky crust that is crisper than pie dough but softer than cookie dough,
in my opinion is the only dessert that closely resembles the North American fave, a pie!

Everyone will love this because it is sweet, tender and has a crumbly crust.

I added some nutrition to this crust via: ground almonds and lemon zest for a wonderful citrus scent.

I used homemade grape jam from my trellis but, any delish jam will do.

Step 1: Ingredients

Crostata:

3/4 lb butter, margarine or shortening, room temp
4 egg yolks
1/2 cup milk or dairy free beverage
3 cups sifted flour
1 cup of ground almonds
3/4 cup of sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
zest of 1 lemon
2 tsp vanilla
jam
icing sugar

Step 2: Prep of Dough

Beat in a mixer; butter, yolks and sugar until fluffy.
Add the milk, vanilla and zest, continue to mix.
Turn the mixer to low speed add
1/2 of the flour and all of the baking powder.
Stir to mix.
Continue to add the remaining ingredients.
Do not mix completely!
Drop the contents onto a cleaned, floured surface.

Knead to form a ball.

*You can use this immediately or refrigerate to firm the dough enabling you to roll with a rolling pin and form the lattice with decorative cutters.*