Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this gluten-free blueberry and sweet ricotta crostata. The buttery crust is made with a mix of gluten-free flours, providing a light and flaky texture. The filling combines plump blueberries with creamy sweet ricotta, creating a perfect balance of tart and sweet. This crostata is perfect for a gathering or as a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice cold water
- For the filling:
- 1 cup sweet ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon milk, for brushing
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, for sprinkling
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
- Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of ice water. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of ice water.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sweet ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, gently toss the blueberries with cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread the sweet ricotta mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
- Arrange the blueberry mixture on top of the ricotta filling.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as necessary to create a rustic look.
- Brush the edges of the dough with milk and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the blueberries are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy the gluten-free blueberry and sweet ricotta crostata warm or at room temperature!
Interesting Facts
The word 'crostata' is Italian and refers to a rustic tart or pie with a free-form crust.
Gluten-free flour blends can vary, so make sure to use a blend specifically designed for baking.
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of vitamins.
Ricotta cheese is made from the whey leftover during the production of other cheeses.
The combination of sweet ricotta and tangy blueberries makes this crostata a delightful dessert.