Tarta de Santiago (Spain)

Tarta de Santiago (Spain)

Tarta de Santiago is a traditional Spanish almond cake originating from the Galicia region, specifically Santiago de Compostela. Named after St. James (Santiago in Spanish), the patron saint of Spain, this cake has been enjoyed by pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago for centuries.

With only a few ingredients—almonds, eggs, sugar, and lemon or orange zest—Tarta de Santiago is simple to make, yet full of rich, nutty flavors. Often decorated with a powdered sugar cross of St. James on top, this cake is both a cultural icon and a delightful dessert that’s naturally gluten-free.

Here’s how you can bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen with this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups (200g) almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon (or 1 orange for a slightly different flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A pinch of salt

For Topping

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Cross of St. James stencil (optional, for a traditional look)

How to Make Tarta de Santiago

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with butter and lightly dust with flour or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy. You can use a hand mixer for this step if desired.

Add Zest and Cinnamon: Stir in the lemon zest (or orange zest if using) and cinnamon. The zest adds a bright, fresh aroma that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Incorporate Almond Flour: Gradually fold in the almond flour and salt, stirring until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as the batter can become dense.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly browned, and the cake should feel springy to the touch.

Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Step 4: Decorate with Powdered Sugar

Stencil the Cross of St. James: Once the cake is completely cool, place the Cross of St. James stencil in the center of the cake. Sift powdered sugar over the top of the cake to create an even layer. Carefully remove the stencil to reveal the traditional cross pattern.

Serve: Slice the cake and serve it at room temperature. Tarta de Santiago is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, tea, or a small glass of Spanish dessert wine.

Chef’s Note

Choosing Almond Flour: For the most authentic texture, use finely ground almonds or almond flour with a slightly coarse texture. Avoid almond meal that includes the almond skins, as it can affect the cake’s appearance.

Flavor Variations: While lemon zest is traditional, feel free to experiment with orange zest or even a splash of almond extract for added depth. A bit of cinnamon is optional but can enhance the warmth of the almonds.

Cross of St. James Stencil: If you want to recreate the traditional look, search for a printable Cross of St. James stencil online, or create your own stencil by cutting out the design on a piece of sturdy paper.

Storage: Tarta de Santiago keeps well at room temperature for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. This cake can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this almond cake with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey. It’s delicious as-is but pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 20mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Conclusion

Tarta de Santiago is a simple yet refined cake that showcases the beauty of almonds in a moist, flavorful dessert. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its rich history and cultural significance, make it a rewarding treat for any occasion.

With each slice, this cake brings a taste of Spain’s Camino de Santiago into your home, inviting you to share in a tradition enjoyed for centuries.

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