Rab cake


The Rab cake is a traditional Croatian cake which originates from the Adriatic island of Rab. Its main ingredients are almonds and Maraschino liqueur and it is traditionally baked in the shape of a spiral, although today several shapes are popular.

History

According to legend, this cake was first served in 1177 to Pope Alexander III when he consecrated the Assumption Cathedral in Rab. The cake was then prepared by nuns from the monastery of Saint Anthony and later by Benedictines from the monastery of Saint Andrew. Rab cake became a delicacy reserved for wealthy families and aristocrats living on the island of Rab in the time when Rab was a part of the Venetian Republic. Today, Rab cake is prepared only for festive occasions like weddings, baptisms, etc. It is also a very popular souvenir because it has a shelf life of about two months.