Bali Kue Mangga

Introduction to Bali Kue Mangga

Bali Kue Mangga, affectionately known as Balinese Mango Cake, is a delightful dessert that hails from the picturesque island of Bali, Indonesia. This vibrant cake captures the essence of tropical flavors through its use of fresh mango, a fruit that is highly esteemed in Southeast Asian cuisine. The dessert reflects not just the island's abundance of mango, but also the Balinese skill of turning simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. Mangoes, known as "Mangga" in Bahasa Indonesia, are celebrated not only for their sweet, juicy taste but also for their year-round availability in Bali. With its sunny flavors, the Bali Kue Mangga is perfect for ending a meal on a high note or enjoying as an afternoon treat alongside a cup of Balinese coffee.

Historical Background

The art of baking in Bali has a rich tradition influenced by both local and foreign culinary practices. While traditional Balinese sweets mainly consist of sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar, the introduction of cakes likely came from European influences during colonization periods. Over time, local culinary artisans infused their indigenous fruits and flavors into these foreign techniques, giving birth to unique desserts like the Kue Mangga. This cake not only represents a bridge between cultures but also underscores the resourceful nature of Balinese cooking in utilizing what is fresh and available. Mangoes, with their myriad of varieties, are cherished in Bali, making them a natural choice for a notable dessert like Bali Kue Mangga.

Ingredients for Bali Kue Mangga

• Mango - 3 ripe pieces, pureed and sliced for topping
• Flour - 1 and 1/2 cups
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Eggs - 3 large
• Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
• Milk - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Mango

Begin by peeling the mango and cutting them into cubes. Set aside about half of them for the puree and the other half for topping.

Make the Mango Puree

In a blender, puree half of the mango cubes until smooth. This will be incorporated into the cake batter to infuse it with the mango flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Ensure they are well combined to make sure your cake layers are uniformly baked.

Create the Batter

In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the softened butter, mixing it in until fully blended. Slowly add in the milk, vanilla extract, and mango puree, mixing thoroughly.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, taking care not to overmix, ensuring the batter remains light and airy.

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat thoroughly. This is crucial for even cooking. Use a cooking timer to keep track.

Prepare the Cake Pan

Grease a cake pan with a little butter and dust with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Layer the remaining sliced mango on top for a decorative finish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Utilize a cooking timer to monitor the baking duration precisely.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the Bali Kue Mangga to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the cake at room temperature or chilled, which enhances the fruity flavors. This delightful cake can be served on its own or with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. Pair it with traditional Balinese coffee or tea to fully embrace the island's gastronomic ambiance.

Enjoy your homemade Bali Kue Mangga as you transport yourself to the vibrant and aromatic world of Balinese flavors.