Description
No-Bake Cassava Cake is a traditional Filipino dessert made by steaming a mixture of grated cassava, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. The cake is topped with a creamy coconut topping thickened with cornstarch, steamed until set, and served chilled or at room temperature. This gluten-free and vegetarian treat offers a rich and creamy texture with a uniquely sweet and coconutty flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cassava Cake
- 2 cups grated cassava (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Topping
- ½ cup coconut cream
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Steam the cassava cake: Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch non-stick skillet or a heatproof pan suitable for steaming. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water droplets from disturbing the cake’s surface. Place the pan in a steamer over medium heat and steam for 45 to 50 minutes or until the cake is firm and set in the center.
- Prepare the topping: While the cassava cake steams, combine the coconut cream and sweetened condensed milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously and slowly add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in water). Cook the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency, then remove from heat.
- Top and steam again: Once the cassava cake is cooked and firm, evenly spread the prepared coconut topping over the warm cake. Cover the pan again and steam for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the topping to set properly.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool completely before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, garnish with grated cheese or toasted coconut for extra flavor.
Notes
- For additional flavor, sprinkle grated cheese or toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.
- Store leftover cassava cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh; it can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
- If using frozen grated cassava, ensure it is fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture that can affect the cake’s texture.
