Kueh Lapis (Nine Layer Cake)
Kueh Lapis, also known as Nine Layer Cake, is a visually stunning and delightfully chewy steamed cake popular in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Its distinct layers, often in vibrant colors, are achieved through a meticulous steaming process, resulting in a sweet, coconut-infused treat that is a favorite for celebrations and everyday enjoyment.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 ml Water
- 200 g Sugar
- 5-6 pieces Pandan leaves(knotted)
- 370 ml Coconut cream
- 180 g Tapioca flour
- 80 g Rice flour
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- various Food coloring(e.g., red, blue, yellow)
- for greasing Neutral oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and knotted pandan leaves. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove pandan leaves and discard. Let the syrup cool slightly.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
In a large bowl, whisk together coconut cream, tapioca flour, rice flour, and salt until smooth. Gradually add the cooled sugar syrup, whisking continuously until well combined. Strain the batter through a sieve to remove any lumps and bubbles.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Divide the batter into portions according to the number of colors desired. Add food coloring to each portion and mix well.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Grease a square steaming pan (e.g., 8x8 inch) with oil. Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a rolling boil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Pour one ladleful (about 1/4 cup) of the first colored batter into the hot steamer. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the layer is set and slightly sticky.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 6
Stir the next colored batter well before pouring it over the first layer. Steam for another 5-7 minutes. Repeat this process for all remaining layers, alternating colors.
⏱️ 1 hour - 7
For the final layer, steam for an additional 10 minutes to ensure it is fully cooked and set.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 8
Once steamed, remove the Kueh Lapis from the steamer and let it cool completely at room temperature for at least 3 hours before cutting and serving.
⏱️ 3 hours
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the steamer is at a rolling boil before adding each layer.
- ✓Stir each portion of batter before pouring to prevent separation of flours.
- ✓Cooling completely is crucial for the cake to set properly and for easy slicing.
🔄 Variations
- Use different color combinations for a unique look.
- Adjust the ratio of tapioca flour to rice flour for a chewier or softer texture.