Learn how to make Kueh Lapis, a traditional Indonesian dessert made of colorful and fragrant layers. Follow our step-by-step recipe and impress your guests with this delicious and beautiful cake.
Kueh Lapis: A Traditional Indonesian Cake with a Multilayered History
Kueh Lapis, also known as Spekkoek, is a traditional Indonesian cake that is famous for its multi-layered appearance and sweet, buttery flavor. This cake is a perfect representation of the country’s diverse culture, as it blends Chinese, Indonesian, and Dutch culinary traditions.
In this article, we will explore the history of Kueh Lapis, its unique features, and how to make this delicious cake at home.
The Origin and Evolution of Kueh Lapis
Kueh Lapis, which literally translates to “layered cake,” is believed to have originated in the Indonesian island of Java during the Dutch colonial period. The cake was inspired by Dutch “spekkoek,” a type of cake that is layered with spices and sugar. However, the Indonesian version of the cake uses a blend of Asian spices and coconut milk, which gives it a unique flavor and texture.
The cake’s popularity quickly spread throughout the country, and it is now a staple dessert during special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. In addition to Indonesia, Kueh Lapis is also enjoyed in other Southeast Asian countries, such as Malaysia and Singapore.
Unique Features of Kueh Lapis
The most distinctive feature of Kueh Lapis is its multi-layered appearance. The cake is made by stacking thin layers of batter on top of each other, with each layer being cooked before adding the next one. The cake typically has at least 12 layers, but it can have up to 20 or more layers, depending on the baker’s preference.
Another unique feature of Kueh Lapis is its flavor. The cake has a sweet, buttery taste that is enhanced by the use of Asian spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The addition of coconut milk gives the cake a moist and tender texture, which makes it a delight to eat.
How to Make Kueh Lapis at Home
Making Kueh Lapis at home may seem daunting, but with the right recipe and technique, anyone can make this delicious cake. Here is a simple recipe that you can try:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of butter, softened
- 200 grams of sugar
- 8 egg yolks
- 2 egg whites
- 150 grams of all-purpose flour
- 100 ml of coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of cloves powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C and prepare a 20cm square baking pan by greasing it with butter and lining it with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift in the flour and spices, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the coconut milk, mixing until the batter is smooth.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until well incorporated.
- Pour a thin layer of batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the first layer for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
- Repeat the process of adding a layer of batter and baking until all the batter has been used up. Be sure to let each layer cool before adding the next one.
- Once the cake is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully remove it from the pan and cut it into small pieces.
- Serve the Kueh Lapis with a cup of tea or coffee, and enjoy!
