_Torta de Aceite: Spain's Traditional Olive Oil Cake_

 _Torta de Aceite: Spain's Traditional Olive Oil Cake_

Torta de Aceite is a deliciously moist and savory olive oil cake of Andalusia. This typical Spanish dessert has been a staple of bakeries for generations. It's only since Spain began to provide an endless number of traditional desserts with its history of olive oil production that it could satisfy even the most discerning palate. Here we give you a step-by-step guide to make this iconic dessert at home.

_Ingredients:_

1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil

- 4 large eggs

- 2 tsp baking powder

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp ground anise

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/4 tsp ground cloves

- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds

- 1/4 cup (30g) candied lemon peel

_Equipment:_

- Large mixing bowl

- Whisk

- Rubber spatula

- 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan

- Olive oil brush

_Step-by-Step Instructions:_

_Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan_

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Grease cake pan using olive oil.

 

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

 

1. In a bowl mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, anise, cinnamon, and cloves.

 

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

 

1. In another bowl whisk together olive oil and eggs.

 

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

 

1. Pour wet into dry ingredients.

2. Mix well till smooth.

 

Step 5: Add Chopped Almonds and Candied Lemon Peel

 

1. Fold chopped almonds and candied lemon peel into the mix.

 

Step 6: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan

1. Pour batter into prepared cake pan.

 

Step 7: Bake

 

1. Bake 40-45 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

 

Step 8: Cool and Glaze (optional)

 

1. Let completely cool.

2. Glaze with powdered sugar and lemon juice (optional).

 

Tips and Variations:

 

- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

- Replace almonds with hazelnuts or walnuts.

- Add a splash of lemon or orange zest.

 

History and Fun Facts:

 

- Torta de Aceite originated in Andalusia, Spain.

- It is used mostly during Christmas.

- Olive oil forms a significant percentage of Spanish food.

 

 

 

_Conclusion:_

 

 

 

In just these few easy steps, you will be baking an authentic Spanish Torta de Aceite in no time. The traditional olive oil cake will surely delight your family and friends.

 

 

 

Recipe Variations:

 

 

 Mini Torta de Aceite: Use mini cake pans.

Gluten-Free Torta de Aceite: Employ gluten-free flour.

Vegan Torta de Aceite: Replace eggs with flaxseed.

Would you like me to provide variations of this torta de aceite recipe, write about other Spanish desserts, or create a list of essential Spanish baking ingredients? Let me know!