Tarta de Santiago is one of Galicia’s most beloved desserts, steeped in history and tradition. This almond-based cake is not only delicious but also a symbol of the region’s cultural and religious heritage. When in Santiago de Compostela, you will see the cake in the windows of every bakery. And then try to resist!
In Gallego it’s called Torta de Santiago, and translated to English it would be cake of St James.
The Tarta de Santiago is easy to make and tastes very well. I often make a a cake when friends or family comes over for a visit. They always love it!
You can directly recognise a Tarta de Santiago. This is because the top of the round pie is decorated with powdered sugar, leaving a stencilled cross of Saint James.
History of the Tarta de Santiago
The origins of Tarta de Santiago date back to the Middle Ages, making it a culinary treasure with centuries of tradition. It is closely associated with the Camino de Santiago and the city of Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims enjoy the cake after completing their spiritual journey.
The first mention of the cake was in 1577 when it was mentioned as ‘bizcocho de almendra’. In this time almond flour became a key ingredient, a testament to the Moorish influence on Spanish cuisine.
The first recipe of the cake is found in a book dated from 1838.
Today, you can directly recognise the cake due to the decorated cross of Saint James on top of it. This decoration has not always been there. The origin of the cross being decorated on the cake dates to 1924 when the “Casa Mora” began to adorn the almond cakes with the silhouette.
In 2006 the EU gave the Tarta de Santiago a protected status as a tipical geographical product.
How to Make Tarta de Santiago
This cake is wonderfully simple to prepare and requires just a handful of ingredients. Its gluten-free nature makes it accessible to many, while its rich almond flavor and delicate texture ensure it’s a hit with everyone.
Recipe for Tarta de Santiago
Ingredients:
- 350g almond flour
- 250g granulated sugar
- 6 eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar for decoration
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and grease a 23cm (9-inch) round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and frothy.
- Gradually mix in the almond flour, lemon zest, and cinnamon (if using) until you have a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
- Place a stencil of the Cross of Saint James on top and dust generously with powdered sugar. Carefully remove the stencil to reveal the iconic design.
Tarta de Santiago: A Taste of Galicia
Whether you’re a pilgrim completing the Camino or a foodie exploring Galician cuisine, Tarta de Santiago offers a taste of history and tradition in every bite. A lovely combination with a cup of coffee or tea. As a dessert or during the day with your tea or coffee.