1-Getting started with golden crostata: preheating your oven to 190°C and lining a large baking tray with baking paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup, making the process smooth for beginners. Follow these steps to create a delicious result every time.

2-First, make the pastry: by combining 250g sifted plain flour and 160g cold diced butter in a food processor until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add 40ml iced water and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar while processing, then blend until the dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to rest.

3-Next, prepare the filling: by mixing 450g sliced pears or apples, 100g frozen raspberries, 30g almond meal, 2 tbsp demerara sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla bean paste in a large bowl. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 5mm thickness and transfer it to the tray. Place the fruit mixture in the center, leaving a 4cm border.

4-Then, fold the pastry edges over the fruit, pleating as you go for that rustic look. Dot 25g softened butter over the fruit, sprinkle with extra demerara sugar, and brush the pastry with 1 lightly whisked egg. Bake on the bottom shelf for 40 minutes or until golden and the fruit is cooked through.

5-Allow it to cool slightly before serving with lightly whipped thickened cream. This preparation takes about 30 minutes plus resting time, and 35 minutes cooking, fitting for students or working professionals.