Lapis Legit - Indonesian Layered Spice Cake

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) butter, softened 500g (4 cups) butter, softened
• 400g (2 cups) granulated sugar 400g (2 cups) granulated sugar
• 12 large eggs 12 large eggs
• 300g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour 300g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp ground cloves 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt ½ tsp salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a rectangular baking pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4.
   Sift the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and salt into the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Pour a thin layer of batter into the greased baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. 7.
   Bake for about 10 minutes or until the layer is lightly golden.
8. 8.
   Repeat the process, adding a thin layer of batter on top of the previous layer, until all the batter is used.
9. 9.
   Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Eggs — Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• All-purpose flour — Sift the flour to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve distinct layers, pour each layer of batter gently and spread it evenly using a spatula.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean and neat layers.
• Serve the Lapis Legit with a cup of hot tea or coffee to complement its rich flavors.
• For an extra touch, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Lapis Legit in thin slices to fully appreciate the intricate layers and flavors. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

Present the Lapis Legit on a decorative cake stand or platter to showcase its beautiful layers. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for an elegant touch.