Authentic Bolu Kukus from Nationwide — traditional Indonesian snack with step-by-step cooking instructions

Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Bolu kukus is a popular Indonesian steamed sponge cake that blooms open like a flower when steamed. Made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, eggs, and emulsifier, the cake has a soft, fluffy texture and comes in various colours and flavours. The blooming top is considered a sign of a well-made bolu kukus.

🗺️ Origin: Nationwide⏱ Time: 40 mins👥 Servings: 15 pieces📊 Difficulty: Easy
📋 Recipe
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Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions📜 History & Origin🔥 Cooking Mastery🗺️ Regional Variations🥗 Nutrition FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 200 g all-purpose flour
  • 150 g granulated sugar
  • 3 egg
  • 1 tsp emulsifier (SP/TBM)
  • 100 ml milk cair
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla
  • food coloring to taste

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Beat egg, sugar, and emulsifier until fluffy
  2. add sifted all-purpose flour, stir fold
  3. add milk melted and vanilla, Stir perlahan
  4. Bagi dough into beberapa bagian, Add food coloring
  5. Pour dough to mold yang sudah diolesi oil
  6. Steam with heat large selama 15-20 minutes until mekar

💡 Tips

Use high heat when steaming so the cake blooms perfectly. Do not open the steamer lid too often.

📜History & Origin

The Story Behind This Dish

Steamed cake is a modern variation that has become a popular snack throughout Indonesia.

🔥Cooking Mastery

Technique

Steaming cake batter over high heat so it rises and blooms open at the top.

🗺️Regional Variations

Regional Differences

Bolu Kukus comes in various flavors such as chocolate, pandan, strawberry, or mocha.

🥗Nutrition & Dietary Info

Nutritional Profile

Carbohydrates from wheat flour and sugar. Protein from eggs and milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake?

Bolu kukus is a popular Indonesian steamed sponge cake that blooms open like a flower when steamed. Made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, eggs, and emulsifier, the cake has a soft, fluffy texture and comes in various colours and flavours. The blooming top is considered a sign of a well-made bolu kukus.

Where does Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake come from?

Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake originates from Nationwide. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

Can I find Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake outside Indonesia?

Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake can be found at Indonesian restaurants and Asian grocery stores in many countries. However, the authentic taste is best experienced in Indonesia. You can also make it at home using the recipe above — many ingredients can be substituted with readily available alternatives.

Is Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake difficult to make?

Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake is rated as easy, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

How do I store leftover Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake?

Store leftover Bolu Kukus: Steamed Sponge Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

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Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
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