As the warm, enticing aroma of coconut fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel nostalgic about gathering around the table with friends and family, enjoying traditional treats that unite us. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful Filipino dessert that perfectly embodies that spirit: Kalamay Kapit. This easy-to-make steamed rice cake offers a wonderful symphony of flavors, marrying the chewy texture of glutinous rice with the rich creaminess of coconut milk and the heavenly essence of ube jam.
Imagine layers of vibrant purple and sunny jackfruit creating a feast for both the eyes and palate! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a sweet escape from the mundane fast-food routine, this recipe is a perfect companion for any occasion, gathering, or simply a cozy evening at home. Let’s dive into this delicious journey and discover how to recreate this tropical gem in your own kitchen, with plenty of tips and variations to make it uniquely yours!
Why is Kalamay Kapit a must-try dessert?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of coconut milk, ube jam, and sweet jackfruit delivers a treat that tantalizes your taste buds.
Easy to prepare: This recipe is simple, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for a quick culinary adventure.
Gluten-free delight: Made with glutinous rice, it’s a fabulous option for those seeking gluten-free desserts without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with fruits or toppings, allowing you to customize each batch to suit your taste or occasion.
Perfect for sharing: A vibrant centerpiece for any gathering, Kalamay Kapit will impress your guests and spark delightful conversations.
Make it an unforgettable party treat or an everyday dessert—all you need is some quality ingredients and your enthusiasm!
Kalamay Kapit Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients to create the delightful and gluten-free Kalamay Kapit that everyone will love!
For the Cake
- Glutinous rice – Provides the essential chewy texture that defines Kalamay.
- Coconut milk – Adds creaminess; substitute with coconut cream for a richer flavor.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dessert; adjust to taste based on your sweetness preference.
For the Flavor Layers
- Ube jam – This key ingredient brings a unique earthy flavor and vibrant purple hue; store-bought makes it easy!
- Jackfruit – Adds a sweet tropical note; opt for canned jackfruit in syrup for convenience.
For the Topping
- Latik – These caramelized coconut curds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; while optional, they are highly recommended!
How to Make Kalamay Kapit
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Prepare the Glutinous Rice: Start by steaming the glutinous rice according to the package instructions until it’s tender and cooked through—this usually takes about 30-45 minutes. The rice should be soft and sticky.
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Create the Base: In a large bowl, mix the steamed rice with the creamy coconut milk and sugar. Stir until everything is well combined, and the mixture is smooth and slightly sticky.
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Shape the Cake: On a clean surface, flatten the rice mixture into a rectangle. Spread a generous layer of ube jam over the top, then sprinkle the sweetened jackfruit evenly across the surface.
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Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the rectangle into a log shape, ensuring the fillings are snug inside. Once rolled, slice the log into 16 equal portions using a lightly oiled knife for clean cuts.
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Serve: Arrange the slices on a serving plate and drizzle them with sweet syrup and a sprinkle of latik. This adds an irresistible finishing touch!
Optional: For extra flavor, top with toasted coconut flakes before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Kalamay Kapit is a fantastic dessert for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the steamed glutinous rice with coconut milk and sugar, flattening it into shape, and layering the ube jam and jackfruit. Simply cover the assembled log tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake into portions and drizzle with syrup and latik for that final touch—rest assured, it will be just as delicious as freshly made! This preparation can make your gatherings effortless, all while offering the sweet taste of tradition.
Expert Tips for Making Kalamay Kapit
- Preparation is Key: Ensure your glutinous rice is thoroughly steamed and sticky; this guarantees the perfect chewy texture essential for Kalamay Kapit.
- Layering Technique: Spread the ube jam evenly to enhance flavor distribution; if it’s too thick, it may not meld well with the other ingredients.
- Proper Slicing: Greasing your knife prevents the delicious layers from sticking, ensuring beautiful slices for presentation.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If pressed for time, opt for store-bought ube jam and canned jackfruit; this can save you valuable prep time while maintaining flavor.
- Steamer Setup: Make sure your steamer is adequately prepared to avoid excess water dripping onto your dessert, which can alter its texture.
How to Store and Freeze Kalamay Kapit
Room Temperature: Keep Kalamay Kapit in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the dessert in an airtight container, where it can last up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or steamer before serving to revive its softness.
Freezer: Freeze uncut logs of Kalamay Kapit wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and slicing.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or steam until warm, ensuring that you enjoy the chewy goodness of this authentic Filipino dessert once more!
Kalamay Kapit Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore new dimensions with your Kalamay Kapit, allowing your creativity to shine through with these tasty twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a different creamy base while keeping it plant-based.
- Tropical Flare: Add diced mango or pineapple for a fruity infusion that brings a refreshing sweetness to your dessert.
- Sweet Potato Bliss: Replace ube jam with mashed sweet potatoes for a lovely orange hue and an equally delicious taste. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the coconut notes.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like cashews or almonds for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
- Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for a richer, more indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
- Pandan Love: Swap the ube jam for pandan extract to create a fragrant, green-hued treat that transports you straight to tropical paradise.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the rice mixture for a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for a decadent twist that adds an exciting layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Dive into these variations to create a Kalamay Kapit that reflects your taste while keeping the heart of this beloved Filipino dessert intact!
What to Serve with Kalamay Kapit?
Enjoying sweet treats is best complemented by a thoughtful selection of sides that enhance the experience and complete your meal.
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Fresh Tropical Fruit: A vibrant assortment of mango, pineapple, and bananas pairs beautifully with Kalamay Kapit, adding a refreshing contrast and bright notes.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet bites match the coconut flavor profile, making every bite an indulgent adventure into tropical bliss.
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Steamed Sticky Rice: Another version of rice that matches the chewy texture, it makes for a comforting companion and can be enjoyed drizzled with coconut milk.
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Espresso or Coffee: A strong cup brings out the depth of flavors in the dessert while balancing the sweetness with a rich, bold finish.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: Drizzling this over the Kalamay Kapit adds an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness, enhancing each mouthful.
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Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of mango or coconut sorbet can provide a refreshing palate cleanser, revitalizing your taste buds after each decadent slice.
The combination of these delightful pairings not only enhances your Kalamay Kapit but also promises a memorable dining experience, perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home.
Kalamay Kapit Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe jackfruit for my Kalamay Kapit?
When selecting jackfruit, look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet aroma. Avoid jackfruit with dark spots or signs of over-ripeness, as these may affect the flavor. If pressed for time, canned jackfruit in syrup is an excellent alternative that’s convenient and just as delicious.
What is the best storage method for Kalamay Kapit?
To store Kalamay Kapit, place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it in the same container, where it can last up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat before serving to restore its delightful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze my Kalamay Kapit?
Absolutely! To freeze Kalamay Kapit, wrap uncut logs tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll be able to enjoy its chewy goodness again!
What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
If your mixture is too sticky, it may indicate that the glutinous rice wasn’t steamed properly. Instead, try adding a little more coconut milk, gradually, until the consistency improves. For a drier mixture, you can mix in a bit more coconut milk to achieve a smooth, sticky texture perfect for rolling.
Is Kalamay Kapit gluten-free?
Yes, Kalamay Kapit is gluten-free because it uses glutinous rice as its base. However, always check other ingredients (like certain brands of ube jam) to ensure they are free from gluten if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
Can I modify the flavors in my Kalamay Kapit?
Definitely! Experimenting with flavors is encouraged. If you’d like to change things up, try using mango or pandan extract instead of ube jam for a unique twist. Feel free to add your favorite fruits or toppings to personalize this dessert to your liking!
Kalamay Kapit: Delightful Filipino Dessert You Can Make Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the glutinous rice by steaming until tender and cooked through, taking about 30-45 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the steamed rice with coconut milk and sugar until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Flatten the rice mixture into a rectangle, spread ube jam on top, and sprinkle jackfruit evenly.
- Roll the rectangle into a log shape and slice into 16 equal portions.
- Arrange slices on a serving plate, drizzle with syrup, and sprinkle with latik before serving.