Image by Stevie Ekkelkamp

Tortas de Aceite

The Tortas de Aceite has been a beloved staple of Spanish cuisine for centuries, one that looks deceptively simple yet packs a lot of flavor and complexity. Originating in Andalusia, the traditional dish consists of thin, oven-baked disks of unleavened dough, flavored with anise seeds, caraway seeds, and rosemary, then brushed with fruity olive oil. The distinct taste, texture, and aroma all make for an exquisite treat, one which no Spanish kitchen would be complete without.

Tortas de Aceite


The key to this delightful treat lies in the careful blending of spices and ingredients, as well as the perfect balance between crunchy and chewy. After the dough is formed into small flat discs, it's then brushed with a generous coating of fragrant olive oil before being baked in an oven until golden brown. Once cooled, the disks develop a beautiful crackled surface, with the olive oil giving them a unique crunchy and delicate crumb.

It's easy to see why the Tortas de Aceite have become so widely beloved throughout Spain. Not only do they offer an amazing burst of flavor, they are also incredibly versatile; they can be served as a tasty snack on their own, added to an array of creative dishes (from croquettes to empanadas), or even enjoyed as a breakfast pastry with a cup of hot café con leche.

Like many traditional Spanish dishes, the Tortas de Aceite have come to represent more than just a delicious treat. For some, they are a source of comfort and nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times and how quickly life can pass by. For others, they are a reminder of the incredible craftsmanship found in Spanish cuisine, and a perfect example of how a seemingly straightforward recipe can be utterly beguiling.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, one thing is for sure: a Tortas de Aceite is always worth savoring. With its classic flavors and unparalleled texture, this beloved classic is sure to make your taste buds happy and your kitchen look exquisite.

The origin of Tortas de Aceite

Tortas de Aceite: A Sweet and Savory Historical Treat

Tortas de Aceite, a beloved snack treat in Spain and Latin America, is said to have its origins in ancient Greek and Roman breads. This delicious, hand-pressed cookie is made from an egg-free, unleavened dough composed of extra-virgin olive oil, flour, and sugar. It has a distinctive texture and flavor, with a hint of bitterness from the olive oil that makes it uniquely delightfully.

The actual date when Tortas de Aceite were first created is unknown. But we do know that they were produced on a large scale in Andalusia, Spain during the 19th century. The cakes soon became popular, and their preparation was adapted to fit regional tastes and preferences.

Today, this crispy sweet treat is found in bakeries and supermarkets all over the world. In Mexico, it's often served with hot chocolate as part of traditional dishes like teleras and garnachas. In Argentina, it's referred to as pan de aceite or aceitunas. And in Colombia, it's eaten as a popular snack called almojábana.

Tortas de Aceite remain an iconic pastry in many Latin American countries, and for good reason—they act as a comforting reminder of the past. Sweet, savory, and always delightful, these treats embody the charm and flavor of classic Spanish cuisine like no other food can. Whether shared among family and friends, served with a cup of coffee on a lazy Sunday morning, or simply enjoyed straight out of the bag, one thing is certain: Tortas de Aceite are here to stay.

Types of Tortas de Aceite

Tortas de Aceite are one of the most beloved Spanish delicacies, not just in Spain but across the globe. With a distinct flavor that's both sweet and savory, they make for the perfect snack or light meal. But did you know there are more than just one type of Tortas de Aceite? That's right - there are several varieties, each with its own unique twist.

We'll start with the OG Tortas de Aceite, the classic. These little crackers are made from wheat flour, sugar, salt and extra virgin olive oil. They have a crunchy but slightly chewy texture that pairs perfectly with a morning coffee or late night snack. This version also comes in a variety of flavors like anise and orange blossom, so you're sure to find one that pleases your palate.

Now for something a little different: Tortas de Aceite con Anis (anise fanatics rejoice!). This variation is the same dough as the original recipe but with an extra helping of anise seeds. The dough is then formed into figures of either a heart, star, rooster or other animal shapes.

For the fans of a healthier alternative, there's Tortas de Aceite Integrales. These snacks are made with whole wheat flour, which means more fiber - and more nutrition. The texture is slightly denser than the classic version, but hey, all the more reason to eat more of them!

If you're looking for something a bit more decadent, try the Tortas de Aceite con Chocolate. These ones are the ultimate combination of sweet and savory. They're made with the same dough as the anise-flavored ones, but they're dipped in a layer of dark chocolate, making them truly irresistible.

So if you ever get the craving for a treat, don't forget about the beloved Tortas de Aceite. Whichever version you choose, you won't be disappointed.