If comfort had a flavor, it would taste like Torta della Nonna — the beloved Italian “Grandmother’s Cake.”
This traditional Tuscan dessert is everything you’d expect from a recipe passed down through generations: simple ingredients, rustic beauty, and a flavor that feels like a warm hug from nonna herself.
With its buttery shortcrust pastry, creamy lemon-scented custard, and delicate topping of pine nuts and powdered sugar, Torta della Nonna is a dessert that turns everyday moments into something special.
🌼 A Little History
The name Torta della Nonna literally means “Grandmother’s Cake,” and it originated in Tuscany.
It’s said that the recipe was created by a chef who wanted to impress diners with something traditional and homey — and his creation quickly became a classic across Italy.
Every Italian family has its own version — some with a touch of vanilla, others with orange zest, and some even adding a hint of liqueur. But one thing never changes: the feeling of nostalgia it brings with every bite.
🍰 What Makes It So Special
This cake is a perfect harmony of texture and flavor — the crumbly pastry contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich custard inside.
It’s lightly sweet, not overly rich, and best enjoyed with a cup of coffee, espresso, or tea.
🍋 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pastry (Pasta Frolla):
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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1 stick (115 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
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2 large egg yolks
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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A pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling (Crema Pasticcera):
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2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
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½ cup (100 g) sugar
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4 large egg yolks
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3 tablespoons cornstarch or flour
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
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⅓ cup (40 g) pine nuts
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
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