Tarta De Santiago (Almond Cake) Recipe
You’re in for a treat with Tarta De Santiago, a simple yet elegant almond cake that’s sure to impress. Imagine this: a fluffy cake made from just ground almonds, sugar, eggs, and a hint of lemon zest. You won’t need fancy equipment, just a mixing bowl and some elbow grease. And don’t worry if your egg whites don’t fluff up perfectly; I’ve got tips for that! Ready to create a delicious dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds?
Ingredients Needed for Tarta De Santiago
When it comes to making Tarta De Santiago, gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious treat.
You’ll need 2 cups of ground almonds, 1 cup of sugar, 4 large eggs, and the zest of one lemon.
If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute half the almonds with hazelnuts! Trust me, it adds a delightful twist.
Let’s get started on this tasty journey!
Preparing the Almond Mixture
As you immerse yourself in preparing the almond mixture for Tarta De Santiago, you’ll want to create a silky blend that captures the essence of this traditional dessert.
Combine 2 cups of ground almonds, 1 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir well until mixed. It should smell divine!
If it’s too dry, just add a splash of water. Enjoy!
Whipping the Egg Whites
With the almond mixture ready and smelling heavenly, it’s time to whip those egg whites into fluffy clouds of perfection! Start with room temperature eggs for the best results. Beat them until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Here’s a handy guide to help you out:
| Stage | Appearance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Peaks | Slightly droopy | 3-5 minutes |
| Firm Peaks | Stiff and shiny | 5-7 minutes |
| Overwhipped | Dry and grainy | 8+ minutes |
Combining Ingredients
Now that your egg whites are whipped to fluffy perfection, it’s time to bring everything together in a delightful dance of flavors!
Gently fold in 200 grams of almond flour, 200 grams of sugar, and a pinch of salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of lemon zest.
Preparing the Baking Pan
Before we plunge into pouring that delicious batter, let’s make sure your baking pan is ready for action!
Grab a 9-inch round cake pan and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray.
For extra insurance, line the bottom with parchment paper.
Trust me, you don’t want your beautiful cake to stick!
A little preparation goes a long way, and your cake will thank you!
Baking the Cake
As the oven preheats to a cozy 350°F, you can almost smell the sweet promise of your Tarta de Santiago coming to life!
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and gently smooth the top. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Resist the urge to peek too soon—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Cooling the Tarta De Santiago
Once your Tarta de Santiago has finished baking, the delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece.
Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer it to a wire rack. This step prevents sogginess.
Trust me, patience pays off; a perfectly cooled cake is much easier to slice and serve! Enjoy the anticipation!
Decorating With the St. James Cross
Decorating your Tarta de Santiago with the iconic St. James Cross is a delightful tradition!
You’ll love how it transforms your cake into a work of art. Here’s how to do it:
- Use powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Cut a stencil of the cross.
- Dust the sugar over the stencil.
- Add almond slivers around the edges.
Enjoy your masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve your Tarta de Santiago, think about how to make it a truly special experience! Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries add a lovely touch too. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Pairing | Description |
|---|---|
| Whipped Cream | Light and fluffy addition |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy, classic complement |
| Fresh Berries | Bright, tart contrast |
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a slice of Tarta de Santiago, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers—lucky you!
To keep that almond goodness fresh, here’s what to do:
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it at room temperature for up to three days.
- Refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Reheat slightly in the oven for a delightful treat!
Enjoy those leftovers!