Gató de Almendra: Traditional Almond Cake from Mallorca

Gató de Almendra, the beloved almond cake of Mallorca, is a soft, fragrant dessert that has been enjoyed for generations.

Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a beautiful place where sunny beaches meet quiet mountain villages, olive trees, and citrus groves. But beyond its breathtaking views, Mallorca is also famous for its traditional food and especially its desserts.

Many of the island’s sweets use simple, local ingredients like almonds, lemons, oranges, and honey. These natural flavors are a big part of what makes Mallorcan desserts so special. Gató de Almendra is a perfect example: a light, flourless cake that is naturally gluten-free and full of Mediterranean character. It’s often served with a scoop of almond or vanilla ice cream and enjoyed everywhere on the island — at family dinners, in local cafés, or during celebrations.

It’s an easy cake to prepare, but every bite feels truly memorable and brings a taste of Mallorca into your home.

Table of Contents

What Makes This Gató de Almendra So Delightful

Simple, Honest Ingredients: Just almonds, eggs, sugar, citrus zest, and a hint of cinnamon; no flour, no fuss.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Full of Mediterranean Soul: Every bite is warm, nutty, and fragrant, like sunshine in cake form.
Perfect with Ice Cream: The traditional pairing with almond or vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level.
Easy to Make, Hard to Forget: A one-bowl wonder that looks unassuming but leaves a lasting impression.

Ready to bring a piece of Mallorca into your kitchen? Here’s how to make this beautifully humble almond cake.

Recipe: Gató de Almendra

Gató de Almendra, usually served with a scoop of almond or vanilla ice cream, is a comforting dessert cherished on the sun-kissed island of Mallorca, bringing a little piece of joy to those who indulge in its delightful flavor.

Serves: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
Calories: 350
Recipe Cuisine: Spanish, Mallorcan
Recipe Keywords: gluten-free almond cake, Mallorcan dessert, Gató de Almendra, almond cake recipe, Spanish desserts, easy gluten-free cakes

Ingredients:

250g (2 ½ cups) ground almonds (raw, skin-on if possible)
200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
6 eggs, separated
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Butter + sugar or parchment paper, for lining the pan
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Optional: a scoop of almond or vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Butter a 23-cm (9-inch) springform pan and dust with sugar, or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy.
Add the lemon zest, orange zest (if using), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix in the ground almonds to form a thick batter.
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks.
Gently fold the egg whites into the almond batter in batches, using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the mixture too much — this gives the cake its light texture.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan, then remove and dust generously with powdered sugar.

Serving Tips:

Traditionally served at room temperature with a side of almond ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Delicious with a cup of café con leche or a glass of Moscatel wine.

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