Kek Lapis Sarawak, or Sarawak Layer Cake, is a traditional Malaysian delicacy renowned for its intricate layers and rich flavours. This multi-layered cake is a labour of love, requiring patience and precision to achieve its signature striped pattern. Here’s how you can recreate this delightful treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 500g butter
- 12 egg yolks
- 6 egg whites
- 200g condensed milk
- 200g castor sugar
- 300g plain flour
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- Assorted food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Batter:
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add egg yolks and vanilla essence, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in sifted flour alternately with condensed milk until the batter is smooth.
Whip Egg Whites:
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped egg whites into the batter until well incorporated.
Layering:
- Divide the batter into equal portions.
- Add desired food colouring to each portion for different layers (optional).
- Preheat oven to 180°C and grease baking pan.
- Pour a thin batter into the pan and bake until lightly set.
- Continue layering and baking until all batter is used, alternating colours for each layer.
Baking:
- Bake the layered cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes or until each layer is cooked and lightly browned on top.
- Repeat until all batter is used, ensuring each layer is evenly cooked.
Cooling and Slicing:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing.
- Once cooled, gently slice the cake into neat portions using a sharp knife.
Presentation:
- Serve the Kek Lapis Sarawak on a platter, showcasing its beautiful layers.
- Enjoy a delightful treat with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Tips:
- Patience is vital when making Kek Lapis Sarawak. Take your time with each layer to achieve the desired result.
- Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature to ensure even baking.
- Use gel food colouring for vibrant and consistent colours in each layer.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Variations:
- Experiment with flavours such as pandan, chocolate, or coffee for unique twists on the classic recipe.
- Add a layer of prunes or raisins between each cake layer for added sweetness and texture.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal (calories may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used).
Conclusion: Kek Lapis Sarawak is not just a cake; it’s a symbol of tradition, patience, and skill. Following this recipe, you can recreate this beloved Malaysian delicacy in your kitchen and experience the joy of its intricate layers and rich flavours. Enjoy the process and savour each slice of this delightful treat!
