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Castagnaccio
Indulge in the rustic charm of Castagnaccio, a traditional Italian dessert that celebrates the earthy flavors of chestnut flour. Originating from the mountainous regions of Tuscany, this dense, rich cake is a gluten-free delight, perfect for those seeking a unique treat. With the nutty crunch of pine nuts and the natural sweetness of plumped raisins, each bite transports you to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. Traditionally enjoyed during the autumn harvest, Castagnaccio is often enhanced with the aromatic notes of fresh rosemary, making it a comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or a glass of Vin Santo. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a taste of history with every forkful!
Ingredients
- Chestnut flour
- 2 cups
- Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon
- Water
- 2 cups, lukewarm
- Olive oil
- 1/4 cup, plus more for greasing
- Pine nuts
- 1/3 cup
- Raisins
- 1/2 cup, plumped in warm water for 15 minutes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- 2-3 sprigs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a 9-inch round cake pan with olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chestnut flour and salt. Gradually whisk in the lukewarm water, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Drizzle the top generously with olive oil, then sprinkle the pine nuts and plumped raisins evenly across the surface.
- Gently press the rosemary sprigs into the batter, allowing their aromatic oils to infuse the cake as it bakes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is firm and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. For an added touch, serve with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.
Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts to the batter.
- If you prefer a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter, though the natural sweetness of the raisins is usually sufficient.
Dietary Information
Servings: 8 Dish Type: Dessert Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Calories: 280 Fat: 12g Carbs: 38g Protein: 5g Sodium: 150mg Sugar: 5g
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