
Castagnaccio (Chestnut Cake)
A traditional Italian chestnut cake, thin and rustic, flavored with rosemary, raisins, and olive oil. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for autumn.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert, Healthy Snack, Snack
Cuisine: Italian, Traditional
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a baking tin with olive oil.
- In a bowl, whisk chestnut flour, water, 2 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt into a smooth batter.
- Stir in drained raisins and half of the pine nuts or walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the tin (should be about 1 cm thick).
- Scatter remaining nuts and rosemary needles on top. Drizzle with the last tbsp of olive oil.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is firm and slightly cracked.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
💡 Tip: Traditionally served plain, but you can pair with ricotta, honey, or fresh fruit.
⚠️ Note: Chestnut flour is naturally sweet – no sugar is added in the authentic recipe.
Useful Links
🌰 Walnut & Wild Herb Bread – rustic loaf with nuts & fresh herbs
🍲 Porcini Soup – earthy autumn comfort food
🍯 Honey-Glazed Walnuts – crunchy sweet nut snack
🌹 Rosehip Syrup – vitamin C rich drizzle