How to Make Spekkoek: A Delicious Journey Through Indonesian Cuisine

Spekkoek, also known as lapis legit or “thousand layer cake,” is an Indonesian spiced layer cake that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. With its distinctive alternating layers, this cake tells a story of patience and culinary artistry. If you’re looking for a baking project that’s both challenging and rewarding, making spekkoek at home is an adventure you’ll want to embark on.

This recipe will guide you through each step, from understanding the unique ingredients to mastering the delicate layering technique. Soon, you’ll be filling your home with the warm, fragrant aroma of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, a sure sign that you’re well on your way to creating your own masterpiece.

What Makes Spekkoek Special

Spekkoek originated in Indonesia during the Dutch colonial era and represents a beautiful fusion of culinary traditions. The cake’s intricate layers, often exceeding fifteen, are achieved by patiently grilling thin layers of batter, one at a time. This time-consuming process creates a cake with a remarkable texture, somewhere between a cake and a pastry, that is both tender and slightly chewy.

The flavor profile of spekkoek is equally captivating. A symphony of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom fills every bite, balanced by the sweetness of the cake itself. This unique combination of textures and flavors has made spekkoek a beloved treat across generations and a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to embark on your spekkoek-making journey by gathering the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 30 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 600 grams (4 1/2 cups) granulated sugar
• 250 grams (2 sticks + 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
• 125 ml (1/2 cup) full-fat coconut milk, shaken well
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 cm (2 inches) cinnamon stick
• 6 cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of ground white pepper

Tools of the Trade

• Several heat-proof bowls
• Electric mixer
• Fine-mesh sieve
• 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Broiler or oven with a broiler setting

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Spekkoek

1. Prepare the Spice Paste: In a small skillet, lightly toast the cinnamon stick and cloves over medium heat until fragrant. Grind the toasted spices with cardamom, nutmeg, and white pepper using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Set aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a cake with a tender crumb.
3. Incorporate the Egg Yolks: Gradually add the egg yolks, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Make sure the yolks are fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Add Coconut Milk and Vanilla: Stir in the coconut milk and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
5. Incorporate the Spice Paste: Sift the spice paste directly into the batter to ensure even distribution and prevent any clumps. Mix until the spices are fully incorporated.
6. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the cake later.
7. Layer and Broil: Here comes the fun (and slightly time-consuming) part! Pour a thin layer of batter (about 2-3 tablespoons) into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly browned.
8. Repeat the Layering Process: Carefully repeat step 7, layering and broiling the batter until all of it is used. Remember that patience is key here, as each layer needs to be cooked through before adding the next.
9. Cooling and Unmolding: Once all the layers are baked, turn off the broiler and let the cake cool completely in the pan. This will help the layers settle and prevent breakage. Once cooled, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan before unmolding.

Tips for Spekkoek Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature egg yolks and butter will help them emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother batter and a more tender cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the egg yolks, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
• Thin and Even Layers: The key to a beautiful spekkoek is thin and even layers. Use a measuring spoon to ensure consistent thickness and spread the batter gently with the back of the spoon.
• Broiler Distance: Adjust the distance between the broiler and the cake pan to prevent burning. You may need to experiment to find the sweet spot for your oven.

Serving and Enjoying Your Spekkoek

Spekkoek is often served as a special occasion treat and is best enjoyed at room temperature. The cake can be cut into wedges or squares and pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Spekkoek Cake Slices

FAQs about Making Spekkoek

Q: Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?

A: While traditional spekkoek recipes call for only egg yolks, you can experiment with using whole eggs. However, using whole eggs will result in a slightly denser cake.

Q: Can I bake spekkoek in a regular oven instead of broiling?

A: Broiling is the preferred method for making spekkoek as it allows for precise browning of each layer. However, you can try baking it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C). The baking time will be significantly longer, and you’ll need to rotate the pan frequently to ensure even cooking.

Q: How should I store my spekkoek?

A: Spekkoek can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Baking Spekkoek

Conclusion

Making spekkoek is a labor of love, but the results are incredibly rewarding. With its unique flavor, impressive appearance, and fascinating history, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, put on your baker’s hat, and get ready for a delicious adventure through Indonesian cuisine. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and photos with us in the comments below!