Dish

Toucinho do céu

Toucinho do céu is a sweet and nutty dessert that is made with ground almonds, sugar, egg yolks, and lard. The mixture is baked until it is golden brown and has a slightly crispy exterior. The inside is soft and moist, with a texture that is similar to a dense cake. The flavor is nutty and sweet, with a hint of citrus from the lemon zest that is added to the batter. It is typically served in small slices, as it is quite rich and filling.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Portuguese cuisine

Dessert› Cake

Origins and history

Toucinho do céu has its origins in the Algarve region of Portugal, where it was created by nuns in the 16th century. The dessert was originally made with pork fat, which is where it gets its name from. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ground almonds and lard instead of pork fat. Today, Toucinho do céu is a popular dessert throughout Portugal and is often served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays.

Dietary considerations

Toucinho do céu is not suitable for those with nut allergies or who follow a vegan or dairy-free diet.

Variations

There are many variations of Toucinho do céu, with some recipes calling for the addition of cinnamon or vanilla extract. Some recipes also use a combination of ground almonds and ground hazelnuts for a slightly different flavor.

Presentation and garnishing

Toucinho do céu is typically presented on a small plate or dessert dish. It can be garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a small piece of candied lemon peel for added flavor and visual appeal.

Tips & Tricks

When making Toucinho do céu, it is important to use high-quality ingredients such as fresh ground almonds and free-range egg yolks. It is also important to bake the dessert until it is golden brown and has a slightly crispy exterior, as this adds to the overall texture and flavor of the dish.