Forktionary

Bika Ambon Recipe

Indonesian cuisine's hidden gem! Bika Ambon is a luscious, sweet treat with a texture similar to a crumpet, but far richer and more decadent. This traditional cake boasts a delightful coconut flavor, achieved using both fresh coconut water and rich coconut milk. A small slice is all you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Learn how to make this incredible cake at home with our easy-to-follow recipe. Note: Fresh coconut water is key – avoid using overly ripe coconuts, as the water can be bitter. If using sweetened coconut juice from an Asian grocer, reduce the sugar in the recipe by about 100g. Store in the refrigerator in warm weather to prevent souring. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 223.5 kcal
Protein 6g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Bika Ambon

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bika Ambon

  • Coconut Milk
  • Water
  • Plain Flour
  • Dry Yeast
  • Rice Flour
  • Tapioca Flour
  • Caster Sugar
  • 100ml fresh coconut water
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • Vanilla Essence
  • a pinch of salt

How to Make Bika Ambon

  1. Gently heat 200ml thick coconut milk in a small saucepan over very low heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 100ml lukewarm water, 250g all-purpose flour, and 7g instant yeast. Set aside in a warm place until frothy (about 10-15 minutes).
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 200g all-purpose flour, 200g granulated sugar, 100ml fresh coconut water, 4 large egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Add the fermented yeast mixture (from step 2) and the cooled coconut milk (from step 1) to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Lightly grease a baking pan (approximately 20x30cm). Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  7. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake for 60-80 minutes, or until the top of the cake is a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

83g

Fat

29g

Carbs

12g

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Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Desserts Fruit Asian Cakes Indonesian Tropical Fruit 4 Hours Or Less