Crostata di Ricotta e Visciole
Rome, Italy
This traditional Roman-Jewish tart features a sweet pastry crust filled with fresh ricotta cheese and sour cherries. The combination of rich, creamy cheese and tart fruit creates a perfectly balanced dessert.
Why locals eat it
This tart originated within the Roman Jewish Ghetto and dates back centuries. It is said to have been created in response to 18th-century papal decrees that prohibited Jewish merchants from selling dairy products, leading them to hide the cheese under a layer of dark sour cherries.
Local tip
This tart is often served at room temperature, but if you find a bakery that serves it slightly warm, the contrast between the melting ricotta and tart cherries is outstanding.
Typically made with
Ricotta, Visciole (Sour cherries), Flour, Sugar, Butter, Eggs. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.