Looking to try a unique Southeast Asian treat, Lykkers? Putu Ayu or steamed pandan coconut cake, is a beloved Indonesian dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pandan and coconut.
Here’s a detailed recipe to help you create these beautiful green cakes topped with grated coconut, perfect for any occasion!
<h3>What is Putu Ayu?</h3>
Putu Ayu is a steamed cake traditionally made with a blend of <b>flour, eggs, sugar, coconut milk, and pandan juice</b>. It’s steamed in small, round molds, with each cake topped with grated coconut, giving it a unique presentation that resembles a flower or crown. The pandan gives it a distinct green hue and a subtle, sweet aroma, while the grated coconut topping adds texture and a hint of creaminess.
<h3>How to Make Putu Ayu at Home</h3>
Making Putu Ayu at home is relatively simple, provided you have the right ingredients and molds. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
<b>Ingredients:</b>
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tbsp pandan juice (blend pandan leaves with water)
1 cup grated coconut, lightly salted
<b>Preparing the Topping</b>
The grated coconut topping is what makes Putu Ayu unique. Lightly salted, it provides a delightful contrast to the sweet cake base. Prepare the topping as follows:
1. Mix the grated coconut with salt until well combined. This step adds a touch of savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2. Place about a tablespoon of grated coconut at the bottom of each mold, pressing it down gently. This topping will form the top layer of your cakes once they’re steamed.
<b>Making the Pandan Cake Batter</b>
The cake batter is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
1. <b>Prepare the Pandan Juice</b>: Blend a handful of pandan leaves with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Strain the mixture to get about 2 tablespoons of vibrant green pandan juice.
2. <b>Beat the Eggs and Sugar</b>: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important for creating an airy, soft texture.
3. <b>Add Wet Ingredients</b>: Gradually add the pandan juice and coconut milk to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. If you prefer a touch of extra aroma, add a splash of vanilla extract.
4. <b>Fold in the Flour</b>: Sift the flour over the wet ingredients, folding it in gently until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
<b>Steaming the Cakes</b>
Now that your batter and toppings are ready, it’s time to steam the cakes. Steaming, rather than baking, helps to retain moisture and creates a soft, fluffy texture.
1. <b>Prepare the Steamer</b>: Preheat your steamer by bringing the water to a boil. To prevent condensation from dripping onto the cakes, wrap the lid of the steamer with a clean kitchen towel.
2. <b>Pour the Batter into the Molds</b>: Carefully spoon the batter over the coconut topping in each mold, filling each about three-quarters full. This will give the cakes room to rise.
3. <b>Steam the Cakes</b>: Place the molds into the steamer and steam for 10-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Try not to open the lid too often, as this can cause the cakes to deflate.
<b>Serving and Storing Putu Ayu</b>
Once steamed, remove the Putu Ayu from the molds and allow them to cool slightly. These cakes are best enjoyed warm, but they’re just as delicious at room temperature. Their light, fluffy texture and sweet coconut aroma make them perfect for serving as a snack or dessert.
Putu Ayu, with its fluffy texture and fragrant pandan-coconut flavor, is a delightful treat that’s simple to make at home. So, Lykkers, the next time you’re craving something unique, give this steamed pandan coconut cake a try—it’s sure to bring a sweet taste of adventure to your day!
PUTU AYU // PANDAN COCONUT STEAMED CAKE
The video by nominooom
