Pão de rala

Pão de rala is a Portuguese dessert that was supposedly invented in Santa Helena do Monte Calvário convent, located in Évora. This sweet, round bread is made with almond-based dough that is wrapped around a sweet filling consisting of sugar, fios de ovos (sweet egg yolk threads), and (most commonly) jam or purée made from gila squash.

Optionally, the cake can be flavored with lemon or orange zest. Dating back to the 16th century, the cake was invented to commemorate the visit of King Sebastian, and in the past, it was traditionally made in the convents located throughout Alentejo.