Traditional Indonesian Kue Ape Recipe

Ingredients

200 grams of rice flour
75 grams of tapioca flour
175 grams of granulated sugar
500 ml of coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon of salt
200 ml of pandan juice
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon of green food coloring (optional)
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
Butter for greasing the pan

Steps and instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, tapioca flour, and granulated sugar.
Slowly pour in the coconut milk while stirring to create a smooth mixture. Ensure all ingredients are well blended.
Add the salt, pandan juice, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using), and mix well.
Sift in the baking powder and mix again until everything is well integrated. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.
Pour a small amount of batter into the pan, swirling it around to create a thin layer. The batter should only cover the middle section of the pan, leaving the edges relatively clean.
Cover the pan and let the Kue Ape cook until the edges start to lift off the pan, indicating that it is cooked.
Once cooked, the Kue Ape should have a thin, crispy edge and a soft, fluffy center. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Serve the Kue Ape warm. Enjoy!

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - A bowl for combining the ingredients.
Whisk or spoon - To mix the batter until smooth.
Sifter - To sift the baking powder into the batter.
Non-stick pan - To cook the Kue Ape, ensuring it doesn't stick to the surface.
Spatula - To flip and remove the Kue Ape from the pan.
Butter knife - To lightly grease the pan with butter.
Cover or lid - To cover the pan while cooking the Kue Ape.

Recipe variations

Adding grated cheese as a topping before cooking for a savory twist.
Using coconut sugar or palm sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Adding diced bananas or other fruits to the batter for a fruity flavor.
Replacing rice flour with wheat flour or all-purpose flour for a different texture.
Adding cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey flavor.
Using almond milk or soy milk as a substitute for coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Adding cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warm and aromatic taste.
Experimenting with different food colorings to create vibrant and colorful Kue Ape.
Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Using pandan paste instead of pandan juice for convenience.

Recipe overview

Kue Ape is a traditional Indonesian sweet treat that is loved for its contrasting textures - a thin and crispy edge with a soft, fluffy center. This vibrant green delicacy gets its unique flavor from coconut milk and pandan juice, which also gives it a wonderful aroma. The process of making Kue Ape is simple and straightforward. It involves mixing a batter, cooking it in a special pan to achieve the characteristic shape, and serving it warm. The result is a delightful, pancake-like snack that is as tasty as it is appealing to the eye. This recipe for Kue Ape takes you through step by step, ensuring you can recreate this unique treat in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Common questions

Can I substitute the rice flour with all-purpose flour? No, rice flour is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor of Kue Ape. All-purpose flour will not yield the same results.
Can I use a different type of food coloring? Yes, you can use a different food coloring of your choice or omit it altogether. However, using pandan juice already provides a natural green color to the Kue Ape.
Can I use a different type of milk instead of coconut milk? Using coconut milk is traditionally preferred for its distinct flavor. However, you could experiment with other types of milk, but note that it may alter the taste and texture of the Kue Ape.
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It is best to prepare the batter right before cooking to maintain its consistency. If you need to make it ahead, try to minimize the time gap and give it a quick stir before using.
Can I store the leftover Kue Ape? Yes, you can store any leftover Kue Ape in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to regain its crispness.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
Whisk - Used to mix the batter thoroughly and ensure ingredients are well incorporated.
Sifter - To sift the baking powder and ensure it is free of lumps before adding it to the batter.
Non-stick Pan - A pan with a non-stick surface for cooking the Kue Ape.
Butter - Used for greasing the pan to prevent the Kue Ape from sticking.
Spatula or Flipper - For flipping and removing the Kue Ape from the pan.
Plate or Platter - Used for serving the Kue Ape.
Knife or Scissors - To cut the Kue Ape into smaller portions before serving.

Origin stories

Kue Ape, also known as "Kue Serabi", is a traditional Indonesian street food often found in bustling food markets of Jakarta. Its name, "Ape", means "ape" in Indonesian which amusingly translates to "uneven" in English, aptly describing the pancake's thin, crispy edges and thick, soft center. This delightful snack is said to be inspired by the Dutch Poffertjes but has been uniquely transformed by the locals using indigenous ingredients like coconut milk and pandan leaves. The green hue of Kue Ape, derived from the pandan leaves, is a common sight in Indonesian desserts and signifies the rich, aromatic flavor that's about to pleasure your palate. This humble pancake, with its unusual name and distinct characteristics, serves as a cheerful testament to Indonesia's vibrant street food culture and its people's creativity in crafting food that truly reflects the heart and soul of their nation.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.