Description
Louise Cake is a classic New Zealand dessert made with a buttery shortbread base, raspberry jam, and a coconut meringue topping. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet snack.
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23cm) square baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream the butter and 125g sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use a fork to prick the base lightly.
- Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the base.
- In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the 150g sugar while whipping, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the desiccated coconut.
- Spoon the coconut meringue mixture over the jam layer and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the meringue is set.
- Allow to cool completely in the tin before slicing into squares.
Notes
- You can substitute raspberry jam with plum or strawberry jam for a different flavor.
- Ensure egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks for a stable meringue layer.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: New Zealand
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
