Torta Nua

Torta Nua is a soft and indulgent cake, originating from Campania. It is characterized by the addition of custard that bakes together with the dough, creating a “naked” and delicious effect. Here’s how to prepare it.

Ingredients

For the base:

• 3 eggs
• 150 g sugar
• 150 g plain yogurt
• 75 ml seed oil
• 300 g 00 flour
• 1 packet baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt

For the custard:

• 500 ml milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 100 g sugar
• 40 g cornstarch (maizena)
• Zest of 1 lemon (untreated)

Preparation

1. Start by preparing the custard. In a saucepan, heat the milk with the lemon zest until it almost reaches a boil. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until you obtain a light and frothy mixture, then add the cornstarch and stir until smooth.
2. Remove the lemon zest from the milk and pour the hot milk slowly into the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously. Return everything to the heat and, stirring constantly, thicken the custard. Then remove it from the heat and let it cool, covering it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

For the cake base: 3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you obtain a light and frothy mixture. Add the yogurt and oil, mixing gently. 4. Then add the sifted flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt, incorporating the dry ingredients with gentle movements to avoid deflating the mixture. 5. Pour the batter into a previously buttered and floured pan (or lined with parchment paper), leveling the surface well.

For assembly: 6. Using a spoon, distribute the custard on top, trying to leave a border free to prevent the custard from sticking to the sides during baking. 7. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for about 40-45 minutes, or until the Torta Nua is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 8. Let it cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.

Trivia

The name “Nua” in this cake refers to the “naked” or “uncovered” effect created by the custard once baked, in contrast to the cake base that surrounds it. This dessert is perfect for breakfast or a soft and creamy snack, and its simplicity makes it suitable for all home baking enthusiasts.