Discover the Rich History Behind Rab Cake (Rabska Torta)
4 minRabska torta, or Rab cake has been made for centuries, dating back to at least the 12th century. This cake is known for its unique spiral shape and rich almond filling, flavoured with Maraschino liqueur and lemon zest. A visit to the island of Rab without tasting Rabska torta is not an option!
The Rabska torta stands out not just because of its delightful taste but also due to its deep cultural roots, distinctive preparation, and the love and tradition passed down through centuries on the island of Rab.
Rich History and Tradition
The Rabska torta has a long history and according to local legend, it was first made in 1177 to honour Pope Alexander III when he visited the island of Rab. It was also made as a delicacy over 300 years ago, during the rule of Venice, in the wealthy homes of Rab’s patricians. In the 19th century, the cake was also made by request at the Monastery of St. Anthony of Padua and later in the Benedictine Monastery of St. Andrew. This makes it not just a dessert but a part of the island’s cultural heritage.
Cultural Heritage
The Rab cake is definitely part of Croatia’s cultural heritage. Because of its history and unique qualities, the Rabska torta has become a symbol of the island and a popular treat for visitors. It’s not just a cake but a way to experience the local culture. If you want to bring a special gift that tells the story of the island for your loved ones, with Rabska torta you cannot go wrong.
Kuća Rabske torte on the island of Rab
Preserving and Sharing the Heritage at Kuća Rabske Torte
The peculiarity of the recipe for Rabska torta is that nobody knows the original recipe with the exact amounts of the ingredients since it is kept in the Benedictine Monastery as a secret. Still, it was passed on from one generation to the other and every person brings their own contribution to the recipe.
If you visit Kuća Rabske torte you will encounter a long-term dedication to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Rab. Ms. Vilma Brna had the opportunity to learn about the making of Rab cake, and with her knowledge and determination, she managed to bring the mediaeval tradition of Rab into the present day. We enjoyed learning how to prepare the Rabska torta as much as we did while tasting it.
Rab cake in the interior of Kuća Rabske torte
Unique Flavours
One of the key ingredients is Maraschino, a cherry liqueur originally from Zadar, which is not far from the island of Rab. The liqueur gives the cake a distinct and aromatic flavour that sets it apart from other almond-based cakes. The combination of finely ground almonds and lemon zest is classic, but the Rabska torta brings out the best of these flavours. The almonds give the cake a rich, nutty texture, while the lemon zest adds a fresh, citrusy aroma.
Ms. Vilma Brna preparing the Rabska torta
Distinctive Shape
The Rabska torta is known for its spiral or snail-like shape, which is not only visually striking but also requires a particular skill to create. Rolling the dough and filling it into a spiral involves careful handling, which showcases the craftsmanship of the baker as you can see in these pictures.
Preparation of Rabska torta
It’s a cake that’s meant to be admired before it’s eaten, adding to its appeal. Bon appetit!
Rabska torta ready to be baked
A Taste of the Adriatic Coast
The cake embodies the spirit of the island and the region. It represents a connection to the Adriatic coast, Croatian culture, and local culinary traditions. It’s a local delicacy, and many families on the island of Rab have their own version of the recipe.
135 metres long Rabska torta
Historically, the cake was prepared for festivities, weddings, and other significant events. It was a symbol of hospitality and the host’s effort to provide something special for their guests.
Therefore, last year to commemorate 135 years of organised tourism on the island of Rab local chefs and bakers from Rab came together to create an exceptionally long version of this iconic dessert. The record-breaking Rabska torta spanned in length, symbolically representing each year of tourism on the island. This event not only highlighted the island’s deep-rooted culinary traditions but also showcased its dedication to preserving and promoting local culture and tourism.
Where to Buy Rab Cake
Rab cake, or Rapska torta, is a top souvenir from the island of Rab due to its rich history and unique flavour and here you can find where you can buy it.
Discover and order the renowned Rab cake along with other unique local products at Benemir, managed by the nuns of the Benedictine Monastery of St. Andrew. This company is dedicated to keeping the heritage and tradition of the millennial monastery. Besides the famous Rab cake, you can find and order online their ecological tinctures and ointments as well as liqueurs and jams and in this way discover the authentic flavours of Rab.
The Rab cake can be also found at Kuća Rabske Torte which is certainly a place worth a visit if you want to learn something more about the preparation and history of this delicious dessert. Besides the popular Rab cake, which can be ordered online you can also find some other traditional products that highlight local flavours and Croatian culinary heritage. For example, you can find local cookies, such as muštaćoni and brusquetti, which are crafted with regional ingredients. They also have locally produced cheese, wines, and liquors.
