As the aroma of baked goods wafts through the kitchen, I find myself transported to the sunny shores of New Zealand, where the beloved Louise Cake has earned a special place in heart and home. This classic dessert features a luscious, buttery shortbread base that cradles a vibrant layer of raspberry jam, topped with an airy coconut meringue that’s simply irresistible. Not only is this Louise Cake a delightful homage to tradition, but it also packs a nostalgic punch, making it the ideal treat for any occasion—from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive gathering. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, ensuring that even novice bakers can shine with this homemade masterpiece. Ready to bring a slice of New Zealand into your kitchen and spread some joy? Let’s get started!
Why is Louise Cake a Must-Try?
Nostalgic Flavor: Experience the unique taste of a classic New Zealand dessert that evokes cherished memories and family traditions.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delightful treat without stress.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for your favorite berry preserves, making it customizable for any taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Perfect for gatherings, this cake will have your friends and family coming back for seconds—just like with my Butter Pecan Cake or Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Beautiful Presentation: Delight in the stunning layers, showcasing a buttery shortbread base topped with fluffy coconut meringue. This cake not only tastes great but looks fantastic too!
Bring the warmth of homemade goodness to your table—let’s indulge in this classic Louise Cake!
Louise Cake Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base
• Butter – Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness of the crust.
• Sugar – Caster sugar is ideal for a smooth base and meringue, though granulated sugar works too.
• All-purpose Flour – This provides the necessary structure; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Eggs – You’ll need three yolks for the base, creating a rich flavor and texture.
For the Raspberry Layer
• Raspberry Jam – Adds a delightful tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery base; homemade or store-bought varieties are both excellent.
For the Coconut Meringue Topping
• Egg Whites – Essential for a light meringue; five whites will create a tall and airy topping.
• Sugar – This sweetens the meringue and helps in achieving that perfect consistency.
• Coconut (shredded) – It lends a delicious texture and flavor; feel free to substitute with desiccated coconut if desired.
• Salt – A small pinch enhances the flavors; adjust according to your salt preference.
With these carefully selected ingredients, your Louise Cake is bound to bring warmth and joy to your home—so let’s bake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Louise Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the sides for easy removal later. This setup is crucial for making your Louise Cake without any sticking issues.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base
In a mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of caster sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Then, incorporate three egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and slowly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour until combined. The dough should be soft yet firm enough to press into the prepared baking pan evenly.
Step 3: Spread the Raspberry Jam
Once your shortbread base is pressed firmly into the pan, spread a generous layer of raspberry jam evenly over the surface. Aim for about 1 cup of jam, ensuring it’s well distributed for a delightful burst of flavor in each slice of your Louise Cake. This vibrant layer adds a beautiful contrast beneath the fluffy meringue.
Step 4: Prepare the Swiss Meringue
In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, whisk together five egg whites and ¾ cup of sugar until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm but not hot, about 3-5 minutes. Remove it from the heat and use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, indicating a glossy meringue.
Step 5: Fold in the Coconut
Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut into the whipped meringue using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the meringue; a light hand is key here! This coconut addition will create the delightful texture on the top of your Louise Cake, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the meringue mixture over the raspberry jam, spreading it evenly to create a lovely, fluffy topping. Place the assembled Louise Cake in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meringue is beautifully golden and set, giving off a sweet aroma that fills the kitchen.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Once slightly cooled, lift it out using the parchment paper and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, slice your Louise Cake into squares and prepare to enjoy this delightful treat!
What to Serve with Classic New Zealand Louise Cake
A perfect pairing enhances the experience of this delightful dessert, creating a memorable meal to savor.
- Clotted Cream: This rich, silky topping adds a luxurious touch, balancing the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: A handful of blueberries or strawberries provides a refreshing contrast, brightening the flavors of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of ice cream complements the tangy raspberry layer, giving you a delightful mix of temperatures.
- Coconut Flavored Tea: Sip on this fragrant herbal tea to echo the coconut notes in the meringue, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A silky chocolate sauce drizzled on the side offers a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Lemonade Spritzer: The zesty refreshment of a fizzy lemonade spritzer can cut through the sweetness, refreshing your palate between sweet bites.
- Cheese Platter: Include a few slices of mild cheese to provide a savory counterpoint, balancing the dessert’s sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea makes for an inviting accompaniment, enhancing those nostalgic flavors.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Elegant and delicious, chocolate-dipped strawberries or oranges add an extra layer of indulgence to your dessert spread.
- Custard Sauce: A drizzle of velvety custard provides a creamy texture, seamlessly enhancing every bite of your Louise Cake.
Expert Tips for Louise Cake
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Use Quality Ingredients: Ensure your butter is fresh and your eggs are at room temperature for the best flavor and texture in your Louise Cake.
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Avoid Overmixing: When folding in the coconut to the meringue, use a gentle hand to prevent deflating the mixture. This keeps your meringue light and airy, essential for that perfect topping.
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Thicker Meringue: If you desire a thicker meringue, be sure to stick to the recommended five egg whites. Adjust your baking time, as it may need an extra minute or two to set properly.
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Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; remove it from the oven when the meringue is lightly golden—overbaking can lead to a chewy texture.
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Parchment Preparation: Use binder clips to secure parchment paper in the pan. This ensures a no-stick experience when removing your Louise Cake while being mindful of meringue contact.
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Storing Leftovers: Although delicious, the cake is best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy every last bite of your homemade Louise Cake!
Louise Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore delightful twists on the classic Louise Cake with these fun and friendly variations!
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Berry Swap: Substitute raspberry jam for strawberry or blueberry jam for a fruity flavor explosion. Each jam brings its own scrumptious twist to the cake!
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the shortbread base for a chocolatey twist. This combination will be a hit for chocolate lovers!
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the base for an extra layer of texture. The nuts provide delightful crunch and flavor that beautifully complements the cake.
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Lemon Zest: Stir in the zest of one lemon into the meringue for a hint of citrus brightness. The fresh lemon flavor perfectly balances the sweetness, making every bite refreshing.
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Coconut Cream: Swap shredded coconut for coconut cream in the meringue for a creamier, richer topping. It brings a lovely silkiness that pairs well with the tart raspberry layer.
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Cinnamon Kick: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the shortbread base for a warm spice note. This adds a cozy touch that makes the cake perfect for chilly days.
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Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Ensure the blend is designed for baking for the best results.
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Spicy Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the meringue for a surprising kick. The heat beautifully contrasts with the sweetness, leaving your taste buds dancing.
Now you’re ready to customize your Louise Cake and make it your very own! Whether you choose the traditional route or venture into bold flavors, each variation promises a smile at your table, just like with my cherished Pecan Pie Dump Cake or Spice Latte Cake. Enjoy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Louise Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the Louise Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: While refrigeration is not recommended as it may affect the meringue’s texture, if needed, cover it loosely in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the Louise Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: If desired, gently warm individual slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh its delightful flavors before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic New Zealand Louise Cake treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the shortbread base and raspberry jam layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the pressed shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its texture, while refrigerating the jam. For the meringue, it’s best to whip it fresh before serving to maintain that light, airy texture. Just before serving, spread the meringue on top of the jam and bake for 20-25 minutes until beautifully golden. With this prep, you’ll enjoy the deliciousness of genuine homemade Louise Cake with minimal effort on the day of enjoying!
Louise Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe raspberries for the jam layer?
Absolutely! Look for raspberries that are plump and bright red without any dark spots or signs of mold. The berries should be fragrant and slightly yielding to the touch—this indicates they’re sweet and ready for making a delightful raspberry jam layer in your Louise Cake.
How should I store leftover Louise Cake?
For best results, store your Louise Cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 3 days, helping to keep the meringue’s lovely texture intact. If you have any leftovers, avoid refrigeration, as it can make the meringue chewy.
Can I freeze Louise Cake, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Louise Cake, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What should I do if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks?
Very often, achieving stiff peaks depends on a few factors. Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease, as any residue can affect whipping the egg whites. If you’re using older eggs, they may not yield as much volume. You can try re-whipping; simply ensure you’re beating the mixture until it looks glossy and holds peaks. Patience is key!
Are there any dietary considerations when making Louise Cake?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, be cautious with the egg whites and coconut, as they can be allergens for some. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always choose high-quality ingredients to make this beloved Louise Cake safe and enjoyable for everyone at your gathering!
Can I adjust the thickness of the meringue topping?
Certainly! If you prefer a thinner meringue, simply reduce the egg whites to three and adjust the sugar accordingly to around 170g. Mix as directed, but baking time may need adjusting, so keep an eye on it until it’s lightly golden and set. The more the merrier when it comes to experimenting with your meringue thickness!
Deliciously Classic Louise Cake with Coconut Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of caster sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate three egg yolks one at a time, then slowly add 1 cup of all-purpose flour until combined.
- Spread a generous layer of raspberry jam evenly over the shortbread base, about 1 cup.
- In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, whisk together five egg whites and ¾ cup of sugar until the mixture is warm. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut into the meringue without deflating it.
- Spread the meringue mixture over the raspberry jam and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely and then slice.
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