Spanish recipes dessert | Tarta de Santiago

Spanish recipes dessert | Tarta de Santiago

As a Spanish chef with over 25 years of experience, I've discovered that the magic of Spanish recipes dessert lies not just in their exquisite flavors, but in their power to bring people together. Among all the Spanish recipes dessert I've mastered throughout my career, the Tarta de Santiago holds a special place in my heart. This traditional almond cake from Galicia, marked with the distinctive Cross of Saint James, carries centuries of history and countless family gatherings in every slice.

When I prepare this dessert in my London kitchen, the aroma of ground almonds and citrus instantly transports me back to my childhood in Madrid, where my grandmother would prepare this cake for our Sunday family meetings. Today, I'm thrilled to share one of my favorite Spanish recipes dessert with you – a recipe that has delighted countless guests in my cooking classes and brought smiles to many faces around the table.

Ingredients (serves 8-10 people)

• 250g ground almonds

• 250g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 lemon zest

• 1 orange zest

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Butter for greasing

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• A paper cutout of the Cross of Saint James (traditional decoration)

A Sweet Connection

Making Tarta de Santiago is more than just baking; it’s about cherishing traditions and sharing joy. Whether you’re introducing it to loved ones for the first time or savoring it with those who know its charm, this Spanish recipes dessert brings warmth and connection to every table.

So, gather your ingredients, invite your family into the kitchen, and let the magic of Tarta de Santiago unfold. Your journey into Spain’s culinary history awaits, one delicious slice at a time!

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round baking tin (about 22 cm in diameter) with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, lemon zest, and cinnamon. This aromatic blend forms the foundation of the cake's flavor.

3. Whisk the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy and light. Gradually incorporate them into the dry mixture, stirring until you achieve a smooth, cohesive batter.

4. Pour and bake: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking tin, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and decorate: Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the tin. For a traditional touch, place the Cross of St. James template on top of the cake and generously dust with powdered sugar. Carefully remove the template to reveal the iconic design.