Name: Classic New Zealand Louise Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: New Zealand
Ingredients: 170g unsalted butter, at room temperature; 125g granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, separated; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 255g all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 200g raspberry jam; 150g granulated sugar (for meringue); 150g desiccated coconut, unsweetened

Why You’ll Love Classic New Zealand Louise Cake Recipe

This Louise Cake combines the rich, tender comfort of a buttery base with jammy fruitiness and a light, airy coconut-studded meringue layer. It’s both simple to make and impressive to serve, making it perfect for afternoon tea, lunchboxes, or dessert trays. The interplay between crisp edges and soft center makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Base
unsalted butter at room temperature
caster sugar
egg yolks
vanilla extract
salt
baking powder
all-purpose flour
raspberry jam or jam of choice

Coconut Swiss Meringue
egg whites
caster sugar
vanilla bean paste (optional)
shredded coconut

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Add salt, baking powder, and flour. Mix on low speed until just combined, then use your hands to finish mixing gently.
Crumble the dough into the prepared pan and press it down evenly to form a base.
Spread a layer of raspberry jam evenly over the base.
To make the meringue, heat the egg whites and sugar together over a double boiler until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 160°F (70°C).
Remove from heat and whip with an electric mixer until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add vanilla if using, then fold in shredded coconut.
Gently spread the coconut meringue over the jam layer.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the meringue is golden.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before lifting it out and slicing into squares or bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 16 square slices
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

Jam swap: Try plum, strawberry, or blackcurrant jam for a new flavor twist.
Meringue style: Use fewer egg whites and sugar for a thinner meringue topping.
Coconut texture: Substitute shredded coconut with desiccated coconut if preferred.
Zest twist: Add lemon zest to the base for a fresh citrus layer.

Storage/Reheating

Store Louise Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The meringue is best enjoyed fresh, as it may soften slightly over time. Reheating is not necessary—serve at room temperature.

FAQs

What is Louise Cake?

Louise Cake is a traditional New Zealand dessert made with a shortbread base, raspberry jam, and a coconut meringue topping.

Can I use a different jam?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite jam such as plum, strawberry, or blackcurrant.

What’s the best coconut to use?

Shredded coconut provides a nice texture, but desiccated coconut can also be used with good results.

Can I make the meringue thinner?

Yes, simply reduce the amount of egg whites and sugar in the meringue layer.

Can I make it gluten-free?

You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Do I have to use Swiss meringue?

Swiss meringue gives better structure and stability, but a basic whipped meringue can also be used if preferred.

Can I prepare it ahead?

Yes, Louise Cake can be made a day in advance. It keeps well for a couple of days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Louise Cake?

It’s not recommended, as the meringue topping may lose its texture after thawing.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts to get clean edges.

Is Louise Cake suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s beginner-friendly. The steps are straightforward and easy to follow.

Conclusion

Louise Cake is a timeless Kiwi classic that brings together simple, comforting flavors in a beautiful layered slice. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it at a special gathering, its buttery base, fruity jam layer, and light coconut meringue topping are sure to impress. Try this nostalgic favorite and enjoy a slice of New Zealand tradition.