Fig Crostata

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crostata offers a balance of sweet figs, citrus brightness, subtle spices, and a tender, flaky crust. The spiced fig filling adds complexity, while the lattice top makes it visually stunning. It’s easier to make than a pie but delivers a homemade, bakery-quality result.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crostata Crust

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (13.5 ounces, when weighed)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Zest from ½ of a navel orange
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 18 tablespoons unsalted butter, chopped into small pats
• 5 tablespoons ice water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Turbinado sugar for sprinkling on the lattice
• Apple cider syrup for brushing on the lattice

Fig Jam Filling

• 2 pints fresh figs (Black Mission figs recommended)
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons apple cider syrup
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• Zest from 1 navel orange
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 5 cardamom pods
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon honey (orange blossom honey recommended)

Directions

Make the Crostata Crust

1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, orange zest, and salt. Pulse to mix.
2. Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Mix ice water and apple cider vinegar together, then add gradually while pulsing until dough just comes together.
4. Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface, form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Make the Fig Filling

1. Remove stems from figs and chop into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add figs, orange juice, apple cider syrup, brown sugar, cardamom pods, dried thyme, orange zest, and salt.
3. Simmer until figs break down and mixture thickens, about 15–20 minutes. Remove cardamom pods. Stir in honey and let cool slightly.

Assemble the Crostata

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rough circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Spread fig filling onto the center, leaving a 2-inch border around edges. Fold edges up over filling, pleating as necessary.
4. Roll remaining dough into strips and create a lattice on top of the fig filling. Brush the crust and lattice with apple cider syrup and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
5. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This crostata serves 8–10 people.
Prep time: 45 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
Cook time: 40–50 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

• Substitute figs with other fruits like plums, apricots, or berries for a seasonal twist.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth.
• Use a vegan butter substitute to make the crust dairy-free.
• Drizzle with extra honey or a simple glaze before serving for added sweetness.
• Sprinkle with toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the crostata at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh the crust.

FAQs

Can I use dried figs?

Yes, but reduce cooking time and add a splash of water or orange juice to help soften them.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made and chilled for up to 2 days before assembling.

Can I freeze the crostata?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to cooking time.

Can I make a smaller crostata?

Yes, scale down the filling and dough proportionally for a smaller tart.

Can I use other citrus instead of orange?

Absolutely lemon or tangerine zest can work for a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Fig Crostata is a rustic yet elegant dessert that combines the sweet, spiced flavors of figs with a tender, buttery crust. With its beautiful lattice top and rich filling, it’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or simply a cozy afternoon treat.

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