Description
A beloved Filipino dessert, this cassava cake features a dense, chewy base made from grated cassava and coconut milk, topped with a luscious custard layer enriched with sweet macapuno (preserved young coconut). It’s a delightful treat perfect for celebrations or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups grated cassava (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup macapuno strings (sweetened preserved young coconut)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (for topping)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)
- Additional macapuno strings, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grated cassava, coconut milk, condensed milk, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the macapuno strings, reserving a small amount for garnish.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- While the base is baking, prepare the topping by combining coconut milk, evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Once the base layer is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the topping mixture over it. Spread evenly.
- Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before garnishing with the reserved macapuno strings. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator before slicing.
- Macapuno can be found in Asian or Filipino grocery stores.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg