5-Ingredient Spanish Almond and Citrus Cake (Tarta de Santiago) – Easy & Flavorful

There’s something truly magical about the simplicity of Spanish desserts, and Tarta de Santiago is no exception. This traditional almond cake, hailing from the Galicia region of Spain, is naturally gluten-free and bursting with citrusy aroma and nutty richness. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, yet tastes like something you’d find in a charming café in Santiago de Compostela.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re looking for an elegant dessert for a dinner party or a simple treat to enjoy with coffee, this cake delivers every time. Let’s dive into what makes this cake so special and how you can make it in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Almond and Citrus Cake

• Naturally Gluten-Free – Made with almond flour instead of wheat flour, this cake is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities
• Rich and Fragrant – The combination of almonds, citrus zest, and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor and aroma
• Incredibly Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required! Just mix, bake, and dust with powdered sugar
• Traditional and Authentic – A taste of Spain in every bite

What Does Tarta de Santiago Taste Like?

This cake is anything but ordinary! It has a soft, slightly dense texture, thanks to the almond flour, with a moist crumb that melts in your mouth. The zesty lemon and orange brighten up the flavor, while the cinnamon adds a warm, subtle spice. It’s sweet, but not overly so, making it the perfect companion to a strong espresso or a glass of dessert wine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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• 2 ½ cups (250g) ground almonds (almond flour) – The heart of the cake, giving it a rich and nutty flavor
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and balances the flavors
• 4 large eggs – Provide structure and moisture
• Zest of 1 lemon – Adds bright citrus notes
• Zest of 1 orange – Complements the lemon and enhances the cake’s aroma
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – A touch of warmth and spice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor depth
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness
• Powdered sugar, for dusting – The signature finishing touch

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Zester or fine grater
• Sifter (for the powdered sugar)

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• Almond Flour: If you don’t have pre-ground almond flour, you can make your own by pulsing blanched almonds in a food processor
• Vanilla Extract: Traditional recipes don’t always include it, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor
• Cinnamon: You can increase the amount slightly if you love a stronger cinnamon flavor
• Citrus Zest: Some versions of the recipe use only lemon or orange zest, but the combination of both gives the best flavor

How to Make Tarta de Santiago

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest until well combined

Step 3: Whisk the Eggs

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they become slightly frothy. If using vanilla extract, mix it in now

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the beaten eggs into the almond mixture. Stir until a smooth, thick batter forms

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar

For an authentic touch, use a St. James Cross stencil before dusting the sugar to create the traditional Tarta de Santiago design

What to Serve with Tarta de Santiago

This cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate it

• Coffee or Espresso – A classic Spanish pairing
• Whipped Cream – Adds a light and creamy contrast
• Fresh Berries – Strawberries or raspberries complement the citrus flavors beautifully
• A Glass of Sherry or Sweet Wine – For an authentic Spanish experience

Expert Tips for the Perfect Tarta de Santiago

• Use Fresh Citrus Zest – This is key for the best flavor. Avoid the bitter white pith when zesting
• Don’t Overbake – The cake should be moist, not dry. Check for doneness around 30 minutes
• Let it Cool Completely – This helps the flavors develop and prevents the powdered sugar from melting into the cake

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How to Store and Keep Fresh

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week, though it’s best enjoyed fresh
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake without sugar?

Yes! You can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but this may slightly alter the texture

Why is it called “Tarta de Santiago”?

This cake is named after Saint James (Santiago in Spanish) and is traditionally decorated with the Cross of Saint James in powdered sugar

Can I add almond extract?

Absolutely! Adding ¼ teaspoon of almond extract enhances the almond flavor

Do I need to use a stencil for the powdered sugar design?

It’s not necessary, but it does make the cake look more authentic! If you don’t have a stencil, you can create your own by cutting out a cross shape on paper

Final Thoughts: A Taste of Spain in Every Bite!

This Spanish Almond and Citrus Cake is the perfect combination of simplicity, tradition, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Spain or simply looking for a delightful new dessert to try, this cake is guaranteed to impress

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on Pinterest, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox

More Delicious Cakes to Try

If you love this Tarta de Santiago, you’ll also enjoy these flavorful and easy-to-make cakes

• Best Yogurt Cake – A light and fluffy cake that’s perfect for any occasion
• Carrot Raisin Oatmeal Yogurt Cake – A healthy twist on a classic favorite
• Mom’s Sour Cream Coffee Cake – A comforting, crumbly cake with a hint of cinnamon

Enjoy baking, and ¡buen provecho!

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