Description
This classic Louise Cake features a buttery shortbread base, a layer of raspberry jam, and a crisp, chewy coconut meringue topping. It’s a nostalgic dessert with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raspberry jam
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 1/4 cups desiccated coconut or unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the base.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden at the edges and just set in the center. Let cool slightly.
- Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the warm base.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar and cornstarch, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in the coconut.
- Spoon the coconut meringue over the jam and spread evenly to the edges.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden and lightly crisp.
- Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use different jams like strawberry, apricot, or blackberry for variety.
- For a citrus twist, substitute lemon curd for the jam.
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Sweetened shredded coconut can be used for a sweeter topping.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 7 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: New Zealand
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
