Orange and Almond Spanish Cake

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 15

Delightful Orange and Almond Spanish Cake recipe for dessert or breakfast

by The Chefin Dessert/Breakfast

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

65 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

438

Sugar

34g

Fat

21g

The Orange and Almond Spanish Cake, also known as Tarta de Santiago, is a traditional Spanish dessert hailing from the region of Galicia. The recipe is believed to date back to Medieval times, and it is named after a pilgrimage sanctuary where the cake is often served to visitors. The Tarta de Santiago became popular all over Spain in the mid-20th century, and since then it has become a staple in Spanish households and bakeries. This cake is perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and tangy flavours. It's an excellent dessert to serve at gatherings or to enjoy as a breakfast treat.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 170C/325F/Gas 3.
2.	Grease a 20-22cm/8-9in cake tin with butter.
3.	Whisk the egg yolks with 200g/7oz of the sugar in a large bowl until the mixture turns a pale colour.
4.	Add the ground almonds and orange zest and stir until well combined.
5.	In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form when the whisk is removed.
6.	Slowly add the remaining 40g/1.4oz sugar to the egg whites, whisking until the mixture is stiff and glossy.
7.	Fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, a third at a time, until just combined.
8.	Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface.
9.	Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.
10.	While the cake is baking, mix the orange juice, lemon juice and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
11.	Bring to the boil and reduce the heat to low.
12.	Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid thickens slightly.
13.	Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in caster sugar to taste.
14.	When the cake is cooked, remove it from the oven and pierce the surface all over with a skewer.
15.	Pour the orange sauce over the cake, making sure it soaks in evenly.
16.	Leave the cake to cool in the tin for at least 30 minutes before removing it and slicing to serve.

PROS

This moist and fragrant Orange and Almond Spanish Cake is easy to make and perfect for dessert or breakfast.
It’s gluten-free and dairy-free, which makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The combination of almonds and orange gives this cake a rich flavour and texture.

CONS

As with any cake, this Orange and Almond Spanish Cake is high in sugar and calories.
It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Additionally, this cake may be too sweet for some people’s taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Orange and Almond Spanish Cake is a good source of protein and healthy fats. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium and fibre, all of which have been linked to a wide range of health benefits, including lower cholesterol levels and reduced inflammation. Oranges are high in vitamin C, which supports your immune system.

	6 eggs , separated
	240 g caster sugar
	230 g almonds , almost finely ground
	2 1/2 oranges , finely grated zest of
	8 oranges , juiced
	1 1/2 lemons , juiced ( if not using Seville oranges )
	1 whole cinnamon stick
	caster sugar , to taste