Tarta de Santiago is a traditional Spanish dessert that hails from the region of Galicia, particularly associated with the city of Santiago de Compostela. This delightful almond cake is renowned for its rich flavor, simple ingredients, and distinctive cross of Saint James, often dusted with powdered sugar. Made primarily from ground almonds, sugar, and eggs, Tarta de Santiago not only satisfies sweet cravings but also represents a cultural symbol of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Its popularity stems from its delicious taste, its historical significance, and its suitability for various dietary needs, making it a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike. As one source notes, this cake embodies the spirit of Galicia with every bite,” highlighting its importance in regional cuisine.
Whether you are exploring the culinary delights of Galicia or simply looking for a unique dessert to impress guests, Tarta de Santiago is sure to be a showstopper.
Tarta de Santiago
The Tarta de Santiago, a traditional Spanish almond cake, hails from the region of Galicia in northwest Spain. This delightful pastry is not only cherished for its rich flavor and moist texture but also for its historical significance, often associated with the pilgrimage to the shrine of Santiago de Compostela. The cake is typically adorned with the Cross of Saint James and is made with simple yet high-quality ingredients, making it a beloved dessert for both locals and visitors alike.
Preparation
History
The origins of the Tarta de Santiago can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where it was originally created by monks in the region. The cake is a symbol of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Its almond base represents the local produce of the region, while the delicate dusting of powdered sugar and the cross symbol highlight the cake’s cultural heritage.
Ingredients
To prepare your own Tarta de Santiago, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Almonds (ground) | 250 g |
| Sugar | 250 g |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Butter (melted) | 100 g |
| Grated lemon zest | 1 zest |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Powdered sugar (for decoration) | as needed |
Steps
Follow these steps to create your own Tarta de Santiago:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the cake pan: Grease a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, and baking powder.
- Beat the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and frothy.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the beaten eggs, stirring until well combined.
- Add butter and lemon zest: Mix in the melted butter and grated lemon zest until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Pour into the pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate: To serve, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and place a template of the Cross of Saint James on top before dusting for decoration.
Enjoy your homemade Tarta de Santiago as a wonderful treat to share with friends and family, celebrating its rich history and delightful flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tarta de Santiago?
Tarta de Santiago is a traditional Spanish almond cake originating from the region of Galicia, often decorated with the cross of Saint James.
What ingredients are used in Tarta de Santiago?
Key ingredients include almonds, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest, with some variations including cinnamon.
Is Tarta de Santiago gluten-free?
Yes, Tarta de Santiago is naturally gluten-free since it does not contain any flour.
What does Tarta de Santiago taste like?
The cake has a rich, nutty flavor from the almonds and a sweet, moist texture, enhanced by lemon.
How is Tarta de Santiago traditionally served?
It is typically served at room temperature, often dusted with powdered sugar and the Saint James Cross stenciled on top.
Can Tarta de Santiago be made in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What occasions is Tarta de Santiago served for?
It is commonly enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, and as a dessert after meals in Galicia.
Where can I buy Tarta de Santiago?
You can find it in bakeries and some grocery stores in Spain or purchase it online from specialty shops.
How should I store leftover Tarta de Santiago?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Is Tarta de Santiago suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients are entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians.
How many calories are in Tarta de Santiago?
A typical slice contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion size and specific recipe.
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
While traditional recipes use almonds, you can experiment with other nuts, although it will alter the flavor.
What drinks pair well with Tarta de Santiago?
It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a sweet dessert wine like Pedro Ximénez.
