INTRODUCTION

This is a type of Indonesian and Malay steamed sponge cake that capture the hearts of many with its pandan and coconut aroma. It is usually crowned with shredded coconut.

In Indonesia, it is mostly called Putu Ayu but in Malaysia and Singapore, it was called Puteri Ayu literally translated as  a beautiful, charming and attractive princess. Whether or not it is linked to Puteri Radin Mas Ayu, a legendary beautiful princess in Singapore history is unknown.. Possibly the steamed cake is beautiful and that is why it was called as such.  It is my speculation, no basis, bias and unfounded probably. Haha.

Well, that is the most I can tell you about this cake. I am not only amazed by the unusual name of this cake, I am very surprise to find that Malay or Indonesian cakes in this shape. It look like a beautiful mini chiffon that have wedges at it sides. Why this shape? Is there a need for the cake to have this shape like chiffon? I have no answer. A traditional kuih muih or cake that have this unusual shape prepared using a special mould really amazed me.

I was told that the mould can be readily obtained from night markets in West Malaysia. But in Singapore, I am totally unsure…And I have used my agar agar mould to prepare this.. Again, I did not buy these agar agar moulds, I collected from one of the gatherings provided by catering company that served dessert in this manner.. Don’t ask me if these dessert cups can withstand steaming? I do not know but I do know I will not steam this if not for purposes of this illustration. Otherwise, I will use cupcake mould for the cake.  In addition, the timing of steaming is extremely short.

Hmmm, it was rather unfair for reader to invest one mould just for a particular bake, I then tried  out other agar agar mould. If you do not have, cupcakes cup is acceptable.

Most recipe in the internet the use of ovalette, a type of yellow coloured sponge cake stabilizer to prepare this cake. But I have decided to shelf the idea of using this as it is not “trendy” any more in household baking unlike 2-0-30 years ago…instead, condensed milk was used..

The verdict of the steamed cake is soft, spongy flavoured with coconut and pandan aroma. It is a nice cake eating on its own but added bits of slightly salty shredded coconut will heighten your palate to another level of enjoyment.

WHAT IS REQUIRED

Servings: Prepare About 12 steamed cakes

• 100 grams of coconut milk
• 100 grams of shredded coconut
• 100 grams of self raising flour
• 75 grams of castor sugar
• 25 grams of condensed milk
• 2 eggs
• Pinches of salt
• Few pieces of Pandanus leaf (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of corn flour (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of Pandan paste

STEPS OF PREPARATION

• Lightly grease the Puteri Ayu mould or other preferred mould.

• Mixed the shredded coconut, corn flour and salt. Steamed the mixture and some Pandanus leaves for about 10 minutes. Once steamed, put some shredded coconut in a mould, press as firmly as possible. Set aside for later use.

• Beat the egg until foamy, add sugar tablespoon by tablespoon until pale and volume expands. Add the condensed milk followed by the pandan paste. Add coconut milk gradually and beat until well combined.

• Sift in the flour and use a spatula to fold the flour until well mixed. Steam in the steamer for about 10-15 minutes. Dislodge the cake by using a tooth pick at the sizes of the mould.

• Best served with additional shredded coconut as a snack or dessert.

CONCLUSION

Not a difficult cake to prepare but it is  a cake with awesome taste. If you don’t like coconut, eating the cake on is own is equally delicious.

Hope you like the post today. Cheers and have a nice day.

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