The Rab cake (Croatian: Rapska torta) 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.^[1] On that occasion, the cake was prepared by nuns from the monastery of Saint Anthony, and later by Benedictines from the monastery of Saint Andrew.^[1]

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 long shelf life.^[1]

Rab cake was depicted on a Croatian kuna 8.60 postage stamp issued by the Croatian Post in July 2020.^[2]