Name: Irresistible Louise Cake: A Slice of Kiwi Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Feel free to use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar (You can substitute caster sugar if that's your preference.); 1 cups All-Purpose Flour (Opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 2 large Eggs (Use two yolks in the base and five whites in the meringue.); 0.5 cups Raspberry Jam (Feel free to swap in your favorite fruit jam for customization.); 5 large Egg Whites (Using room-temperature whites will yield the best results.); 1 cups Shredded Coconut (Desiccated coconut can also be used without altering the amount.); 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar (for Meringue) (Essential for achieving that delightful airy texture.)

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As I sat sipping tea on a rainy afternoon, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my grandmother’s kitchen where the scent of fresh baking wafted through the air. One of her cherished recipes was the Classic New Zealand Louise Cake, a delightful creation featuring a buttery vanilla shortbread base, tangy raspberry jam, and a fluffy coconut Swiss meringue that melts in your mouth. This homemade dessert is not only a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but it’s also perfect for gathering friends and family around the table. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply crave a slice of something sweet, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up and can even be customized gluten-free by swapping in specific flours! Curious about how to recreate this classic dessert? Let’s dive into the delightful layers of Louise Cake together!

Why is Louise Cake so special?

Tradition Matters: This Classic New Zealand Louise Cake is a beloved favorite, steeped in nostalgia and family gatherings.

Delicious Layers: With its buttery shortbread base, tangy raspberry jam, and fluffy coconut Swiss meringue, each forkful offers a delightful harmony of flavors.

Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the jam for your preferred fruit or even use nuts in the meringue for a fun twist!

No Fuss Baking: Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re serving it during afternoon tea or at a joyful get-together, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser—just like my favorite Strawberry Spoon Cake that brings smiles at every celebration!

Louise Cake Ingredients

For the Base
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; feel free to use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the base for a tender texture; you can substitute caster sugar if that’s your preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure of the cake; opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Eggs – Essential for stability; use two yolks in the base and five whites in the meringue, but you can reduce to three for a thinner layer.

For the Jam Layer
• Raspberry Jam – Adds a burst of tartness and sweetness; feel free to swap in your favorite fruit jam for customization.

For the Meringue Topping
• Egg Whites – Whip to stable peaks for fluffy meringue; using room-temperature whites will yield the best results.
• Shredded Coconut – Adds delicious texture and flavor; desiccated coconut can also be used without altering the amount.
• Granulated Sugar (for Meringue) – Helps stabilize the meringue; it’s essential for achieving that delightful airy texture.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting the delightful layers of the Louise Cake, making it a truly special treat that brings joy to every gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Louise Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9″ square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later. This will ensure that the Louise Cake doesn’t stick to the pan, helping you achieve neat slices after baking.

Step 2: Make the Base
In a mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add two egg yolks, mixing well after each addition, then gradually incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour to form a soft dough. Press this dough evenly into the lined baking pan, creating a smooth base for your Louise Cake.

Step 3: Spread the Jam
Once the base is prepared, spread ½ cup of raspberry jam evenly over the surface, covering it fully to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This sweet and tangy layer adds delightful contrast to the buttery shortbread, setting the stage for the fluffy topping to come.

Step 4: Prepare the Meringue
In a heatproof bowl over a double boiler, whisk together five egg whites and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until well combined, then heat gently. Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches about 120°F (49°C), about 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until it forms stiff peaks and is glossy; this creates the light, airy texture essential for the Louise Cake’s meringue.

Step 5: Fold in Coconut
Once your meringue has reached stiff peaks, carefully fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut using a spatula. Take care to maintain the airiness of the meringue as you mix; this ingredient adds wonderful flavor and texture to the topping that perfectly complements the layers below.

Step 6: Assembly
Spread the meringue mixture over the raspberry jam layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Aim for an even layer, allowing it to reach the edges of the baking pan. This fluffy topping will provide a satisfying contrast to the dense shortbread bottom, elevating your Louise Cake to new heights.

Step 7: Bake
Place the assembled cake in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the meringue is set and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it towards the end for that perfect golden hue, which indicates that the meringue is both fluffy and lightly crisped.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Louise Cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan for a minimum of an hour. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift it out and slice into squares. This cooling period ensures that the meringue sets properly and prevents it from cracking when cut.

What to Serve with Classic New Zealand Louise Cake

As you prepare to indulge in the layers of this nostalgic dessert, consider a few delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience even further.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of color and refreshing acidity that complements the sweet layers beautifully. Just imagine the burst of natural sweetness with every bite!
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a luscious contrast to the fluffy meringue and buttery shortbread. The creaminess brings all the flavors together for a sublime dessert experience.
Coconut Macaroons: For a fun twist, serve some chewy coconut macaroons alongside. Their texture and flavor echo the coconut meringue topping, making them a perfect match for your Louise Cake.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea refreshes the palate and balances the sweetness of the cake, making for a delightful tea-time treat. Each sip brings a calming, aromatic touch to your dessert affair.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s warm, inviting layers. Think of the contrast as each spoonful blends the sweet and tart flavors!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a rich chocolate sauce over your slices adds a decadent touch that enlivens the cake’s flavors. The sweet bitterness of chocolate intertwines perfectly with the raspberry jam.
Tangerine Sorbet: This tangy sorbet offers a refreshing palate-cleanser that pairs wonderfully after indulging in the cake’s richness. It brings a delightful citrusy zing that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic New Zealand Louise Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shortbread base and spread the raspberry jam layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the assembled base in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain quality. The meringue topping, however, is best made fresh. When ready to serve, whip the egg whites and fold in the coconut before spreading it over the jam layer. Bake the cake as directed, and you’ll have a beautifully fluffy dessert to impress your guests with minimal last-minute fuss.

How to Store and Freeze Louise Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover Louise Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to preserve its delightful texture.

Fridge: If you prefer to extend its freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Louise Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This revives the fluffy meringue and enhances its delightful sweetness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Louise Cake

Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume and stability when whipping the meringue.
Avoiding Overbaking: Keep an eye on the meringue; it should be lightly browned but not overly dark. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture.
Proper Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This prevents the meringue from cracking and helps maintain a beautiful presentation.
Secure Parchment: Use metal binder clips to hold the parchment paper in place if it tends to buckle during baking. This keeps the base secure and prevents any sticking.
Flour Substitutions: For a gluten-free version of the Louise Cake, experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but always ensure they have good binding properties for the best results.

Louise Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this Louise Cake recipe and make it your own with these tempting twists and swaps!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously accommodating dessert.
Nutty Delight: Substitute shredded coconut with finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for an earthy, crunchy meringue twist. The flavors combine beautifully, adding a new texture that will surprise your palate.
Jam Variety: Swap raspberry jam for other fruit options like apricot, strawberry, or even blackcurrant to create a unique flavor profile for each occasion.
Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the meringue by using a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol while ensuring some sweet notes remain. Deliciously healthy!
Dense Meringue: For a thicker topping, cut back on the egg whites to three, resulting in a denser meringue that adds a rustic touch. The fluffy biscuit-like feel will still be delightful!
Flavor Infusion: Add a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract to the meringue for a delightful flavor enhancement. Each bite will be an aromatic burst of surprise!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the shortbread base for added warmth and richness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Fruit Garnish: Serve the cooled cake topped with fresh fruits, like berries or even sliced citrus, for a beautiful presentation that adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

Explore these options, and make your Louise Cake a centerpiece that sparks joy in every bite! For more delightful treats, be sure to check out my favorite Honey Cheesecake and Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake Bars for inspiration!

Louise Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for Louise Cake?
Absolutely! Unsalted butter is ideal for this recipe as it provides richness and moisture to the shortbread base. If you only have salted butter on hand, just reduce the additional salt you might normally add in the recipe for balance.

How should I store leftover Louise Cake?
Very simple! Store any leftover Louise Cake in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze Louise Cake?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, I recommend wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Louise Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you’re good to go!

What should I do if my meringue isn’t stiff enough?
If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, don’t worry! First, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature, as this can make a significant difference in achieving volume. If it’s still not working, try adding a pinch of cream of tartar midway through whipping to stabilize it, which can help achieve that fluffy, airy texture.

Can I use a different jam for Louise Cake?
Absolutely! The gorgeous thing about this cake is its versatility. While raspberry jam is traditional, you can easily substitute it with apricot, strawberry, or even blackberry jam for a different flavor experience. Just ensure the jam is spread evenly to enhance the delightful balance of sweet and tart in each slice.

Is Louise Cake gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! To make a gluten-free Louise Cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binder in its ingredients for the best results. Happy baking!