How to Make Kue Lapis (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kue Lapis is a beloved layered dessert from Indonesia, renowned for its vibrant colors and unique, chewy texture. This traditional sweet treat, whose name literally means 'layer cake', is often enjoyed during festive celebrations and family gatherings. Originating from the archipelago, Kue Lapis showcases the ingenuity of Indonesian culinary traditions, using simple yet wholesome ingredients such as rice flour, tapioca flour, and coconut milk. It is a vegetarian-friendly dessert that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia, especially in Java and Sumatra regions. Making Kue Lapis at home allows you to experience the authentic flavors and aesthetics of Indonesian cuisine. The cake is steamed layer by layer, creating beautiful stripes that are both visually appealing and inviting. Its subtly sweet and slightly salty taste, combined with the fragrance of coconut milk, makes it a standout dessert. This healthy version of Kue Lapis reduces sugar and incorporates natural coloring, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters while maintaining the authentic taste and texture that Indonesians love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rice flour (tepung beras)
- 1/2 cup Tapioca flour (tepung tapioka)
- 1 1/2 cups Coconut milk (santan)
- 1/4 cup Sugar (reduce for health)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Natural pandan extract (for green layer)
- 1 tablespoon Natural beetroot juice (for red/pink layer)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional, for aroma)
- 1/2 cup Water
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Mix rice flour and tapioca flour in a large bowl
Mix rice flour and tapioca flour in a large bowl. Add coconut milk, water, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract if using. Stir until smooth and lump-free.
Step 2 · Divide the batter into two or three portions
Divide the batter into two or three portions. Add pandan extract to one portion for green, beetroot juice to another for pink, and leave one portion plain for white. Mix well.
Step 3 · Grease a heatproof tin or pan with a little coconut oil
Grease a heatproof tin or pan with a little coconut oil. Pour a thin layer of one colored batter into the pan.
Step 4 · Steam the first layer over high heat for 5 minutes until set
Steam the first layer over high heat for 5 minutes until set. Repeat with alternating colored layers, steaming each layer until firm before adding the next.
Step 5 · After the final layer has set
After the final layer has set, steam the entire cake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
Step 6 · Cool the cake completely
Cool the cake completely, then slice into small squares or diamond shapes. Serve at room temperature.
Why this recipe is healthy
By reducing sugar and opting for natural colorings, this Kue Lapis is a healthier dessert choice, suitable for calorie-conscious individuals. Coconut milk offers beneficial medium-chain fatty acids, and the absence of dairy makes it suitable for lactose-intolerant eaters. This recipe maintains authentic Indonesian flavors while supporting balanced nutrition.
A note on tradition
Kue Lapis is deeply rooted in Indonesian culinary tradition, particularly in Java and Sumatra, and is commonly served during family gatherings, birthdays, and religious festivals. Its layered appearance symbolizes harmony and togetherness. The cake is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert after meals, and is a staple at festive events like Lebaran (Eid).