Grape Jam Crostata

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.
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
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.*
Forming the Crust


Using 3/4 of the dough press into a 12" false bottomed pan.
Press and form the sides leaving a firm edge around the top of the pan.
*This forms the edge so take your time.*
Jam


Spread a jar of your favourite jam on the bottom of the crust.
I used homemade grape jam from my backyard.
Lattice



Pull off some dough and begin to form logs the length and width of the form.
Press the strips onto the edge of the form to break off.
Form a continuous strop around the top edge of the pan for finishing.
*Do you like my Shattered Turquoise nail polish?* LOL
Bake in a preheated 350F for 50 min or until crust is golden.
Cool completely and sprinkle with icing sugar
Enjoy with love