10 Most Popular Cakes In Malaysia

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth in Malaysia? Look no further than the country’s most popular cakes! With a rich and diverse culinary tradition, Malaysia has a dessert culture that’s as unique as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for something rich and decadent or a light and refreshing treat, there’s a Malaysian cake that will satisfy your cravings. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular cakes in Malaysia, giving you a taste of the country’s rich dessert culture. So grab your fork and get ready to discover some of the best sweet treats Malaysia has to offer!

Top 10 Best Cakes In Malaysia

Here’s a list of the most popular cakes in Malaysia that are enjoyed by people of all ages:

1. Kek Lapis Sarawak

Kek Lapis Sarawak is a layered cake that originated from Sarawak, a state in East Malaysia. This cake is made by layering different colored batter on top of each other, resulting in a beautiful and unique design. It’s usually made with a combination of spices, like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, giving it a distinct taste. Kek Lapis Sarawak is often served during festive occasions, like Hari Raya, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Pandan Cake

Pandan Cake is a light and fluffy sponge cake that’s infused with pandan flavoring, a popular ingredient in Southeast Asia. Pandan leaves are used to extract the natural green color and fragrant aroma, giving the cake a distinct taste. It’s usually served with a dollop of whipped cream and some fresh fruit. Pandan Cake is a must-try for those who love a light and refreshing dessert.

3. Durian Cake

Durian Cake is a decadent cake that’s made with the infamous durian fruit, known for its pungent smell and creamy texture. The cake is usually layered with fresh cream and durian flesh, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. Durian Cake is a favorite among durian lovers and is often served during the durian season, which falls between June to August.

4. Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is a classic cake that’s popular all around the world, and Malaysia is no exception. The cake is made with cocoa powder, buttermilk, and a touch of vinegar, resulting in a moist and tender crumb. It’s then layered with cream cheese frosting, giving it a tangy and sweet flavor. Red Velvet Cake is a popular choice for weddings and birthdays.

5. Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is a German-inspired cake that’s made with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries. The cake is usually topped with chocolate shavings and more cherries, giving it a decadent and indulgent flavor. Black Forest Cake is a favorite among chocolate lovers and is often served during special occasions.

6. Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a rich and creamy cake that’s made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar. It’s usually served with a graham cracker crust and topped with fresh fruit or chocolate sauce. Cheesecake comes in many different flavors, like blueberry, strawberry, and chocolate, making it a versatile dessert that everyone can enjoy.

7. Tiramisu

Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that has become popular in Malaysia. The dessert is made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. Tiramisu has a rich and creamy texture, with a hint of coffee flavor. It’s usually served chilled, making it a perfect dessert for hot weather.

8. Butter Cake

Butter Cake is a simple yet delicious cake that’s made with basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. The cake has a tender crumb and a rich buttery flavor, making it a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

9. Gula Melaka Cake

Gula Melaka Cake is a cake that’s made with Gula Melaka, a type of palm sugar that’s commonly used in Southeast Asian desserts. The cake has a rich and caramel-like flavor, with a moist and tender crumb. Gula Melaka Cake is often served with a drizzle of Gula Melaka syrup and some fresh coconut flakes.

10. Ondeh-Ondeh Cake

Ondeh-Ondeh Cake is a modern twist on a traditional Malay dessert called Ondeh-Ondeh. The cake is made with pandan sponge cake, filled with Gula Melaka coconut cream, and coated with desiccated coconut. The cake has a unique flavor profile, with a combination of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. Ondeh-Ondeh Cake is a favorite among those who love to explore new and creative desserts.

What makes a cake popular in Malaysia?

There are several factors that make a cake popular in Malaysia. One of them is the taste – Malaysians love cakes that are rich, flavorful, and slightly sweet. Additionally, cakes that are visually appealing and come in a variety of colors and designs tend to be more popular.

Another factor is the level of accessibility – cakes that are widely available in various stores and bakeries throughout the country are more likely to become popular due to their convenience.

The cultural influence is also a significant factor – cakes that incorporate traditional Malaysian ingredients and flavors such as pandan, coconut, and gula melaka tend to be more popular among locals.

Lastly, social media plays a considerable role in the popularity of cakes in Malaysia. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are widely used in the country, making it easy for cake businesses to showcase their creations and capture the attention of potential customers.

What is the most popular cake in Malaysia?

The most popular cake in Malaysia is called kek lapis, also known as Sarawak layer cake. It is a multi-layered cake made with layers of different flavors such as chocolate, pandan, and vanilla, and is often served during special occasions such as weddings and festivals.

What is the traditional cake of Malaysia?

The traditional cake of Malaysia is called “kek lapis Sarawak”, which translates to Sarawak layered cake.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Malaysia is a country that has an incredible love for cakes, with a diverse range of flavors and styles to choose from, it’s no surprise that it’s a sweet-tooth’s paradise. From the classic butter cake to the uniquely Malaysian durian cake, each cake has its own story and legacy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in your cravings, the cakes in Malaysia are sure to delight your taste buds. So remember to try out these cakes the next time you visit Malaysia and experience the local culture and culinary delights.

I'm Jennifer Tirrell, a self-taught baker, and founder of CakeRe. As an experienced baker and recipe publisher, I have spent over a decade working in the kitchen and have tried and tested countless baking tools and products. From classic cakes to creative twists, I've got you covered. So grab your apron and let's get baking!

Leave a Comment