Kue Lapis is a traditional Indonesian dessert known for its beautiful, colorful layers and unique coconut flavor.

This sweet treat is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions.

Here’s a simple guide on how to make your own Kue Lapis at home!

1. Gather Your Ingredients

To make Kue Lapis, you’ll need the following ingredients:

250g rice flour

200g all-purpose flour

1 can (400ml) coconut milk

300g sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Food coloring (optional)

2. Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, sift together the rice flour and all-purpose flour to avoid clumps. In another bowl, combine coconut milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Slowly add the sifted flour mixture to the coconut milk mixture, whisking continuously to form a smooth batter.

3. Divide and Add Color

If you'd like to add color to your Kue Lapis, divide the batter into several portions, depending on how many colors you want to use. Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion, stirring well to incorporate the color evenly. You can get creative with the shades, using traditional vibrant colors like red, green, or yellow, or even experimenting with pastel tones. Make sure the colors blend smoothly into the batter to ensure even layers once the cake is steamed.

4. Prepare the Mold and Steamer

Grease a cake pan or any round mold with butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick, allowing for easy removal once cooked. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for added assurance. Set up a steamer by filling the bottom with water and bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Make sure the steamer is large enough to fit your mold comfortably, and that the water level stays consistent throughout the steaming process to maintain proper heat.

5. Layer and Steam

Start by pouring a thin layer of one-colored batter into the mold. Steam the batter for about 5-7 minutes, or until set. Once the first layer is firm, add the next layer of batter and steam again. Repeat this process, alternating colors, and steaming each layer until the pan is full. The layers should be thin and uniform to create the signature multi-colored look.

6. Cool, Slice, and Serve

Once all the layers are steamed, remove the cake from the steamer and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it into squares or rectangles. The result will be a colorful, coconut-flavored cake with a delightful texture.

Making Kue Lapis at home is a fun and rewarding experience. With the right ingredients, a little patience, and some creativity with color, you can create this delicious, vibrant Indonesian dessert to share with friends and family!