How to Make Lapis Legit: A Step-by-Step Guide to Indonesia’s Layered Cake

Lapis Legit, also known as Indonesian Layered Cake, is a traditional treat that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. This cake, with its rich, spiced flavor and impressive layers, is a celebration staple in Indonesian cuisine, often enjoyed during festive occasions and special gatherings. Making Lapis Legit involves a bit of patience and precision, but the result is a beautifully layered, aromatic cake that is well worth the effort. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create this exquisite dessert at home.

Start by preparing all your ingredients. The key components of Lapis Legit include butter, eggs, sugar, flour, and a variety of spices. You’ll need a generous amount of butter, typically around 250 grams, to achieve the cake's rich, moist texture. Eggs should be large and fresh—about 10 to 12 eggs are used to create a light and airy batter. You'll also need approximately 200 grams of granulated sugar and 200 grams of all-purpose flour. The spices that give Lapis Legit its distinctive flavor include cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. A touch of vanilla extract can also enhance the aroma of the cake.

Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line the base of a cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to ensure that the cake doesn’t stick. The traditional size for Lapis Legit is a small, square or rectangular pan, but you can use any shape you prefer.

The preparation of the batter is the most critical step. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes with an electric mixer. Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The mixture should become smooth and slightly airy.

Next, sift together the flour and spices. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter and egg mixture. It’s important to mix gently to maintain the batter’s light texture. Add the vanilla extract if you’re using it, and mix until everything is well combined.

Now comes the layering process, which is key to achieving the classic Lapis Legit look. Pour a small amount of batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Place the pan under the broiler or in the preheated oven for a few minutes, until the layer is golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and add another thin layer of batter on top of the first. Return the pan to the oven and cook until the new layer is set and golden brown. Repeat this process, layering and baking each layer separately, until all the batter is used.

This layering technique gives Lapis Legit its distinctive, beautiful stripes. Each layer should be thin and evenly spread to ensure the cake bakes uniformly. Be patient and allow each layer to bake properly before adding the next to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Once all the layers are baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Lapis Legit is best enjoyed after it has rested for a few hours or overnight, as this allows the flavors to meld together.

When serving Lapis Legit, slice it into thin pieces to showcase its beautiful layers. The cake's rich, buttery texture and aromatic spices make it a delightful treat that pairs well with tea or coffee.

Making Lapis Legit requires time and attention to detail, but the end result is a stunning and flavorful cake that’s perfect for special occasions. By following these steps, you can create a traditional Indonesian dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

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