Galician Torta

Introduction to Galician Torta

The Galician Torta, or Tarta de Santiago, is a delightful almond cake originating from Galicia, a region in northwestern Spain. Known for its rich history and cultural significance, this torta holds a special place in the hearts of Spaniards. The cake is traditionally associated with the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, where the relics of Saint James are said to rest. With its iconic Saint James cross dusted with powdered sugar on top, this simple yet flavorful dessert has become a must-try for anyone visiting Galicia.

Ingredients

To make an authentic Galician Torta, you will need the following ingredients:

• Almond flour - 250 grams
• Sugar - 250 grams
• Eggs - 5 large
• Lemon zest - from 1 lemon
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Butter - for greasing the pan
• Powdered sugar - for dusting

Preparation

The preparation of Galician Torta is straightforward, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Follow these steps to create this classic Spanish dessert.

Preparing the Almond Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a springform pan with butter and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and sugar. Stir in the lemon zest and cinnamon until well mixed.

Whipping the Eggs

1. Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
2. Whisk the egg yolks until they become slightly creamy and set aside.
3. In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.

Combining the Mixtures

1. Carefully fold the egg yolks into the almond flour mixture.
2. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the mixture, ensuring not to lose the airiness, until a homogenous batter forms.

Cooking Process

Once your batter is ready, it's time to bake your Galician Torta. Follow these steps for a perfect bake.

1. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
2. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Make sure to set your cooking timer to ensure a perfect bake.
3. Once baked, remove the torta from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack while still in the pan.

Finishing Touches

Following the tradition, the final step is to decorate your Galician Torta with an emblematic cross of Saint James.

1. Once the cake is completely cool, carefully remove it from the pan.
2. Cut out a template of the Saint James cross and place it in the center of the cake.
3. Dust the surface generously with powdered sugar, then remove the template to reveal the cross design.

Enjoying Your Galician Torta

Your Galician Torta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, or paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon snack. Its dense almond flavor and subtle citrus notes make it a versatile cake that is perfect for any occasion.

As you savor each bite, imagine the rich history and cultural traditions that have kept this simple yet delectable cake a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries.