Kue Putu Ayu: An Enchanting Traditional Flavor

Kue Putu Ayu is one of Indonesia's traditional cakes, loved by the public for its unique taste and texture. This cake has an appealing look with its green color from pandan leaves and white grated coconut topping. Kue Putu Ayu is popular not only in Bali but also in various regions of Indonesia, including Java and Sumatra. In Bali, this cake is widely sold in traditional markets and often served as a daily snack or a special treat for guests. Kue Putu Ayu has a long history rooted in the tradition of making wet cakes in Indonesia. This type of cake has been around since ancient times and is made with simple ingredients that are easily found in local markets. 

Kue Putu Ayu Alongside Other Traditional Market Snacks (Source: Private Collection)

In Bali, Kue Putu Ayu has become a popular part of traditional market snacks. Balinese people enjoy this cake for its sweet and savory flavor, as well as its attractive appearance. It is often served alongside tea or coffee and is a favorite snack for all ages. With its distinctive look and captivating taste, Kue Putu Ayu remains popular today amidst the rise of various modern snacks.

The ingredients used to make Kue Putu Ayu are very simple and easy to obtain, as they are usually available in traditional markets in Bali. The main ingredient of this cake is wheat flour, which gives the cake dough a soft texture. The type of flour used is usually medium-protein flour, giving the cake the right texture. Granulated sugar is added to provide the characteristic sweetness, though Kue Putu Ayu typically has a mild sweetness.

Pandan Leaves as The Main Ingredient of Kue Putu Ayu (Source: Private Collection)

Additionally, eggs are a key ingredient that not only adds softness but also helps the dough rise during steaming. The perfectly whipped mixture of eggs and sugar is crucial to creating a soft and fluffy cake texture. Then, there is coconut milk, which adds a natural savory taste and softness to the cake's texture. Coconut milk can be obtained from freshly squeezed coconut, although instant coconut milk can be used as an alternative. The fragrance and natural green color of Kue Putu Ayu come from pandan leaves, which are usually crushed and squeezed to extract their juice. This natural pandan color not only enhances the cake's appearance but also gives it a fresh aroma.

Another essential ingredient is grated coconut, which is sprinkled on top of the cake. The grated coconut topping provides a savory contrast to the sweet cake dough, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Grated coconut is usually mixed with a bit of salt to enhance its savory taste, which complements the cake's sweetness. The combination of these ingredients gives Putu Ayu cake its soft texture, delicious flavor, and fragrant pandan aroma, making it a perfect snack to enjoy anytime.

The process of making Kue Putu Ayu is quite simple and does not require special equipment. The first step is preparing the grated coconut that will be used as the bottom layer of the cake. This grated coconut is mixed with a bit of salt for added savoriness, then briefly steamed to maintain its softness. Once steamed, the grated coconut is placed at the bottom of the mold as the first layer of Kue Putu Ayu. The next step is mixing the batter. In a large bowl, eggs and granulated sugar are whipped with a mixer until they expand and turn pale white. This process is essential for producing a soft and fluffy cake texture. After the batter is fully expanded, gradually add coconut milk and flour, then stir until well mixed.

Then, add pandan extract or pandan paste to the batter to give it the signature natural green color of Kue Putu Ayu. Stir again until the green color is evenly distributed. Next, the finished batter is poured into molds with grated coconut at the bottom. Fill the molds nearly to the top to achieve a perfect cake shape. Once all the batter is poured, these molds are placed in a preheated steamer pot. Steam the cake for about 10–15 minutes until fully cooked. The cooked cake will have a soft texture and a bright green color, with white grated coconut topping. After steaming, remove the cake from the molds and serve. An ideal Kue Putu Ayu has a blend of sweet and savory flavors with an appealing and appetizing look.

Balinese Kue Putu Ayu has several unique qualities that set it apart from similar cakes in other regions. In Bali, this cake is often made in a smaller size, making it more practical and easy to enjoy in a single bite. Additionally, Kue Putu Ayu in Bali generally has a slightly different taste due to the use of fresh, natural ingredients, especially grated coconut freshly peeled and grated, as well as fresh pandan leaves for coloring.

Balinese Kue Putu Ayu is also often presented with a unique aesthetic touch, such as using banana leaves as a base or serving it on woven bamboo trays. This provides a more natural and attractive appearance, adding a traditional feel to its presentation. Besides enhancing its appearance, using banana leaves is also believed to help retain the cake's fresh and natural aroma.

Apart from its distinctive look, Kue Putu Ayu in Bali often comes in interesting flavor variations. Some bakers have started experimenting by adding flavors like chocolate, cheese, and strawberry, without losing the essential character of Putu Ayu cake. This innovation makes Kue Putu Ayu more appealing to various groups, especially the younger generation who may enjoy a variety of flavors.

Kue Putu Ayu Preserving Tradition in The Modern Era (Source: Private Collection)

Kue Putu Ayu remains popular in Bali despite the rise of many modern snacks. This cake continues to be a top choice for Balinese people, both as a daily snack and as a dish for guests. In traditional markets in Bali, Kue Putu Ayu is easy to find, and its affordable price makes it a favorite snack for many.

In the midst of modern food trends, the presence of Kue Putu Ayu shows that the Balinese still highly value the taste and culinary traditions passed down from generation to generation. Additionally, Kue Putu Ayu is also favored by tourists eager to try Balinese specialties. With its soft texture and sweet, savory taste, this cake always succeeds in winning the hearts of first-time tasters.

Kue Putu Ayu is an example of a traditional food that remains relevant amidst changing times. With simple ingredients, this cake offers a delicious taste loved by all groups. The uniqueness of Balinese Kue Putu Ayu lies in its soft texture, signature pandan aroma, and savory grated coconut topping. More than just a snack, Kue Putu Ayu is an important part of Bali's culinary identity, worthy of preservation.

Kue Putu Ayu is more than just food; it reflects the culture and traditions of Balinese people who value culinary heritage. Each bite of this cake provides an authentic taste that reminds us of the beauty and uniqueness of Indonesia's local culture. Its deliciousness makes Kue Putu Ayu not only a traditional market snack but also a symbol of Bali's culinary richness that will always be cherished.