Kuih Lapis

Kuih Lapis (KOO-eh LAH-pis)

Layered Steamed Cake

⏱ Prep Time 1.5 hours

📈 Difficulty Medium

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 230 kcal

A mesmerizing rainbow of nine steamed layers, each tinted a different color, made from rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and pandan — soft, bouncy, and peeled apart layer by satisfying layer.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 2.0g

Carbs 42.0g

Fat 6.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ coconut

Equipment Needed

steamer square baking tray measuring cups ladle

Presentation Guide

Vessel: porcelain plate

Garnishes: banana leaf base

Accompaniments: afternoon tea, other kuih assortment

Ingredients

250g rice flour
100g tapioca flour
400ml coconut milk
300ml water
300g sugar
1 tsp pandan extract
Food coloring (red, green, yellow, blue, purple)
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1
Mix rice flour, tapioca flour, sugar, salt, coconut milk, and water into a smooth batter.
2
Divide the batter into 9 equal portions. Tint each a different color (one portion with pandan extract for green).
3
Grease the baking tray. Pour the first layer of batter, about 3mm thick.
4
Steam over high heat for 5 minutes until the layer is set. Pour the next colored layer on top.
5
Repeat steaming each layer for 5 minutes until all 9 layers are done.
6
Allow to cool completely before unmolding. Cut into diamond shapes with an oiled knife.

💡

Did You Know?

The nine layers of kuih lapis traditionally represent the nine levels of Malay royalty — each color a symbol of a different virtue or blessing.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

steamer
square baking tray
measuring cups
ladle

Garnishing

banana leaf base

Accompaniments

afternoon tea, other kuih assortment

The Story Behind Kuih Lapis

Kuih lapis reflects the layered cultural heritage of the Malay Archipelago, blending Malay, Peranakan, and Dutch-Indonesian influences. The painstaking process of steaming one layer at a time demands patience and precision. During Hari Raya and Chinese New Year alike, kuih lapis appears on every festive table, symbolizing unity in diversity — many layers, one dessert. The Peranakan (Straits Chinese) community elevated kuih-making to a fine art.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed festive celebrations, afternoon tea, hari raya 📜 Origins: Malay-Peranakan tradition, influenced by Dutch-Indonesian kueh

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