Louise cake

Louise Cake is a traditional dessert originating from New Zealand. It is named after Princess Louise, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria. The cake is a layered dessert, typically consisting of a base layer of shortbread, a middle layer of raspberry jam, and a top layer of coconut meringue.

History

The Louise Cake is believed to have been named in honor of Princess Louise, who visited New Zealand in the 19th century. However, the exact origins of the cake are unclear, with some sources suggesting it may have been brought to New Zealand by early British settlers.

Preparation

The base layer of the Louise Cake is made from shortbread, a type of biscuit traditionally made from sugar, butter, and flour. The middle layer is a spread of raspberry jam, although other types of fruit jam can also be used. The top layer is a coconut meringue, made by beating egg whites and sugar until stiff, then folding in desiccated coconut.

After the layers are assembled, the cake is baked until the meringue is golden and crisp. It is typically cut into squares or rectangles before serving.

Variations

While the traditional Louise Cake uses raspberry jam, variations of the cake can be made using different types of jam, such as strawberry or blackberry. Some versions also include a layer of cream or custard.

Cultural Significance

The Louise Cake is a popular dessert in New Zealand and is often served at special occasions and gatherings. It is also commonly found in bakeries and cafes across the country.

See Also

• List of New Zealand desserts
• List of cakes
• Shortbread
• Meringue