Orange Marmalade Tart: A Classic Italian Dessert

The orange marmalade tart is a typical dessert in the Italian pastry tradition, loved for its simplicity and genuine flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert at the end of a meal, this tart combines the sweetness of orange marmalade with the crumbliness of shortcrust pastry. Here’s how to prepare it.

Ingredients for Shortcrust Pastry

• 300 g of all-purpose flour
• 150 g of cold butter, cubed
• 130 g of granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the Filling

• 400 g of quality orange marmalade

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Preparation of Shortcrust Pastry: In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Add the cold cubed butter and start to knead with your fingertips until you get a sandy mixture. Add the egg and quickly knead until you form a homogeneous dough. Wrap the shortcrust pastry in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Rolling Out and Filling: Roll out two-thirds of the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface, forming a disc about 5 mm thick. Transfer it to a previously buttered and floured tart tin. Prick the bottom with a fork and spread the orange marmalade evenly.
3. Creating the Strips: Roll out the remaining pastry and cut it into long, thin strips. Arrange them on the tart, forming a lattice pattern.
4. Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30-35 minutes, until the tart is golden.
5. Cooling and Serving: Let the tart cool completely before cutting. Serve at room temperature or slightly warm.

Tips for a Perfect Tart

• Quality of Marmalade: Choose a high-quality orange marmalade, preferably artisanal, for a more intense and authentic flavor.
• Resting Time: Do not underestimate the resting time of the shortcrust pastry in the refrigerator; it is essential for optimal processing.
• Decoration: For an elegant touch, dust the tart with powdered sugar before serving.

Conclusion

The orange marmalade tart is a simple yet impressive dessert, capable of bringing a smile to breakfast or sweetly concluding a meal. Its preparation, although requiring a bit of patience, is a true celebration of genuine and homemade flavors.