VALENTINE'S DAY DESSERT

GREETINGS FROM CARMELA'S CUCINA,

Valentine's Day is considered one of the most romantic days of the year. Restaurants love it, because everyone wants to go out and celebrate with a big fancy meal. I actually prefer to stay at home for my own cozy dinner with the ones that I love. Below is a recipe for a dessert that my special Valentine loves. If he is lucky I will be making it for him on Monday night. In any case I hope you will try to make this easy but delicious tart for the special person in your life. The recipe can also be found in my cookbook, Carmela's Cucina. And if you still need a gift for the special person in your life contact me for a copy.

Buon appetito,

Carmela Tursi Hobbins

ALMOND JAM TART

1 and 1/2 sticks butter
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup raspberry jam
1/2 cup sliced almonds

In an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together for 4 or 5 minutes, or until pale and fluffy. Reduce speed to low and add almond extract, followed by flour. Mix until combined. Reserve 1/2 cup of the dough, cover with plastic wrap and chill.

Press remaining dough into a 10x1 tart pan with a removable bottom. Chill until firm, about 30 minutes, or as long as overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove tart pan from refrigerator and spread the jam over the crust. Crumble the 1/2 cup of refrigerated dough over the jam. Sprinkle the tart evenly with almonds.

Bake the tart in the middle of the lower oven rack until the crust is golden, 30-40 minutes. Cool on a rack. Remove the tart from the pan and serve at room temperature or warm, with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.