Sticky Coconut Cake
Indulge in the delightful taste of Sticky Coconut Cake, a gluten-free Indonesian treat that is both simple to make and utterly delicious. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. With its rich coconut flavor and unique texture, it’s an absolute must-try for coconut lovers everywhere!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up this dessert with confidence.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or a sweet addition to your afternoon tea.
- Coconut Lovers Delight: Bursting with the rich flavor of coconut, this cake will satisfy any craving for tropical sweets.
- Gluten-Free Option: Made with glutinous rice flour, this recipe is perfect for those seeking gluten-free desserts.
- Make Ahead: The cake sets beautifully in the fridge overnight, making it an excellent option for busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Sticky Coconut Cake, gather all necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Rubber spatula
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for whisking ingredients together without spills.
- Whisk: Essential for aerating egg whites and ensuring a smooth batter consistency.
- Baking pan: An 8×8-inch pan provides the perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.

Ingredients
To make your Sticky Coconut Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Batter
- 2 eggs (separated)
- 1¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2¼ cup full fat canned coconut milk
- 3 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1½ cup glutinous rice flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Sticky Coconut Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C) to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the full fat canned coconut milk, shredded sweetened coconut, glutinous rice flour, and vanilla extract. Ensure there are no lumps; the batter should be thin and liquidy.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into an 8×8-inch baking pan evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until set.
Step 4: Broil for Color
- Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Brush the top with egg yolks.
- Set your oven to broil and place the cake back in for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Set
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.
- Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours before cutting into squares or triangles.
Serve your Sticky Coconut Cake cold from the fridge or at room temperature, and enjoy a delightful treat any time of day!
How to Serve Sticky Coconut Cake
Sticky Coconut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Mango Slices: Sweet and juicy mango slices complement the cake’s texture.
- Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast.
- Banana Chips: Crispy banana chips provide a crunchy texture alongside the soft cake.
With Whipped Coconut Cream
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream enhances the tropical flavors of the cake.
- Flavor Variations: Add a hint of vanilla or lime zest to the cream for an extra twist.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Mini Cheesecakes: Include mini cheesecakes for variety in flavor and presentation.
- Chocolate Dipped Fruits: Offer chocolate-dipped fruits to balance out the sweetness of the cake.
How to Perfect Sticky Coconut Cake
To achieve the best results with your Sticky Coconut Cake, follow these simple tips for perfecting your bake.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your coconut milk and shredded coconut are fresh for maximum flavor.
- Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the cake while it bakes to avoid overcooking. The top should be golden brown.
- Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool completely before refrigerating. This helps it set perfectly.
- Store correctly: Cover the cake with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness during refrigeration.
Best Side Dishes for Sticky Coconut Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Sticky Coconut Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Fresh Tropical Salad: A light salad with pineapple, kiwi, and mint adds freshness.
- Chilled Mango Sorbet: Refreshing mango sorbet offers a cool contrast to the cake’s richness.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats echo the coconut flavor, making them a great pairing.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy rice pudding infused with coconut complements the sweet flavors of the cake.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet balances out the sweetness of Sticky Coconut Cake beautifully.
- Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits provides a burst of flavor alongside each slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sticky Coconut Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your baking success.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your eggs and coconut milk are at room temperature for the best results.
- Not measuring correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision, especially with glutinous rice flour.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined to keep the texture light and airy.
- Skipping cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool properly ensures it sets well. Don’t rush this step; refrigerate overnight for optimal texture.
- Neglecting to check oven temperature: Ovens vary in heat distribution. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap if you do not have a container.
Freezing Sticky Coconut Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sticky Coconut Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350° F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Sticky Coconut Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of flour instead of glutinous rice flour?
Using all-purpose flour is not recommended as it will alter the texture. Stick with glutinous rice flour for that signature chewiness.
How do I know when my Sticky Coconut Cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached—indicating it’s ready!
Can I add toppings to my Sticky Coconut Cake?
Absolutely! Consider adding fresh fruit, shredded coconut, or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.
What should I serve with Sticky Coconut Cake?
Pair it with fresh fruit or a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
How long does Sticky Coconut Cake last?
When stored properly, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Coconut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its unique flavor will appeal to coconut lovers everywhere. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted by its texture and taste!
Sticky Coconut Cake
Indulge in the tropical delight of Sticky Coconut Cake, a gluten-free Indonesian treat that captures the essence of coconut in every bite. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a festive celebration. Its unique texture and rich coconut flavor make it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dish. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing treat that will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indonesian
Ingredients
- 2 eggs (separated)
- 1¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2¼ cup full fat canned coconut milk
- 3 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1½ cup glutinous rice flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together egg whites and granulated sugar until combined.
- Gradually add the coconut milk, shredded coconut, glutinous rice flour, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into an 8×8-inch baking pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until set.
- Brush the top with egg yolks and broil for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate overnight before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 16mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg