Apple-Raspberry Crostata

Crostata is a traditional Italian dessert similar to a pie or a galette. It has a unique flaky golden crust and a filling of seasonal fruits or jams, such as berries, apples, apricots, figs, or cherries. It can also be filled with pastry cream, hazelnut spread, and more. This Apple and Raspberry Crostata recipe has a delicious creamy-cheesy filling made with Tropical Queso Fresco and Tropical Crema and is topped with apple slices and raspberry.

Although a Crostata is simple, it impresses everyone. From the aroma when it’s in the oven to the contrast of the crispy crust and fresh fruit, it’s easy to understand why this Italian delicacy became so popular worldwide.

To make this Apple and Raspberry Crostata, you don’t need a mold. Flatten the dough into a disk shape, place the filling in the center, and fold the edges to contain it. The irregular shape is part of the crostata’s charm.

Tropical Cheeses and products are very versatile. Queso Fresco and Crema Mexicana are part of many typical savory dishes, but they’re also great for desserts.

You can buy Tropical Queso Fresco Mexicano and Crema Mexicana at supermarkets where Tropical products are sold. Use our Store Locator to find a location near you.

Ingredients

Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Filling:

• 1 cup crumbled Tropical Queso Fresco Mexicano
• 1/4 cup Tropical Crema Mexicana
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping:

• 1 medium red apple, such as Gala, cored and thinly sliced
• ½ cup raspberries
• 1 egg, beaten
• Confectioners’ sugar

Preparation:

1. In large bowl combine flour, sugar and salt; cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water; knead until mixture is smooth. Refrigerate dough about 1 hour.
2. Meanwhile, prepare filling: In blender or food processor combine Queso Fresco, crema, sugar, flour, egg, vanilla and cinnamon. Blend until mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F. On parchment paper, roll out dough to a 10-inch circle. Spoon cheese mixture into center of dough to 2 inches from edge. Fold sides over to enclose cheese filling. Arrange apple slices in concentric circle in center of tart. Sprinkle with raspberries. Brush outside of crust with beaten egg. Bake 30 minutes or until crust is crowned and crisp. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.