Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake Recipe ( Nutella Horse Shoe Cake Recipe )

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Here’s a sweet twist to an old classic! The Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake, or Nutella Horse Shoe Cake, is a popular treat in Indonesia and Malaysia. This cake is a modern and delicious variation of the traditional Tapak Kuda Cake, which is baked and folded in a horseshoe-shaped to symbolize good luck. The Nutella version has become a favorite for many because of its delightful chocolate hazelnut spread layered in between the soft and spongy cake.

The history of the Tapak Kuda Cake dates back to the colonial era, and it's believed to be influenced by the Dutch butter cake, but the Nutella version is a more recent invention. This recipe has become a must-try for Nutella lovers and is perfect for sharing during special occasions, gatherings, or simply as a delicious indulgence for yourself!

In this recipe, you will learn how to create this delightful cake from scratch. From preparing the batter, creating the darker layer with Nutella, assembling the cake, to folding it into the signature horseshoe shape. It may seem like a lot, but with some patience and careful following of the instructions, you will be rewarded with a delicious cake that will surely impress everyone!

So, grab your apron and get ready to create a delicious masterpiece. The Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake is waiting for you!

JUMP TO:

INGREDIENTS:

Ovalette: Ovalette is a type of cake emulsifier, usually used in sponge cakes and chiffon cakes to create a soft, light, and spongy texture. It is made from fatty acid esters of glycerol, which help to stabilize the batter, retain moisture, and give the cake a finer structure. If ovalette is not available, you can substitute it with other cake emulsifiers like "SP" or "sponge gel," but it might slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake. Make sure to adjust the quantity accordingly, as different products might have different concentration levels.

Cocoa Powder: Choose a high-quality chocolate flavoring as it will significantly impact the final taste of your cake. You can also use cocoa powder as an alternative, but it will give a different texture and flavor to the cake.

Nutella: Nutella is a key ingredient in this recipe and gives the cake its distinctive flavor. Make sure to use the original Nutella brand as alternatives may have a different consistency and flavor. If Nutella is too thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave to make it more spreadable.

MAIN STEPS:

Preparing the Darker Layer: Setting aside one-fourth of the batter to mix with Nutella creates the chocolate layer of the cake.

Assembling the Cake: Layering the cake batter correctly is crucial for achieving the desired horse shoe shape. First, a layer of white batter, then the Nutella batter, and finally another layer of white batter. Be careful while layering the batters. Make sure to spread the batters evenly in the pan to get a perfect layered cake. Using a piping bag for the white batter can help in spreading it evenly.

Folding and Chilling: Folding the cake into a horse shoe shape using parchment paper helps to shape the cake without damaging it. Wrapping the roll with cling wrap and refrigerating it helps the Cake to hold its shape and allows the flavors to meld.

SERVED WITH:

Starter: Bruschetta (Italy): Toasted slices of bread topped with a mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. This classic Italian appetizer is light and flavorful, providing a nice contrast to the richness of the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake.

Side Dish: Roasted Vegetables (Global): A mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli, roasted with olive oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs. This simple and healthy side dish complements the sweetness of the cake.

Main Course: Grilled Chicken Breast (Global): A simple and lean protein option, grilled chicken breast can be seasoned with a mix of spices and served with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad. This dish provides a balance to the rich and sweet dessert.

Second Course: Gnocchi Pasta with Pesto Sauce (Italy): Gnocchi pasta tossed in a flavorful pesto sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This dish is light yet flavorful, making it a perfect companion to the Nutella cake.

Dessert: Mixed Berry Sorbet (Global): A refreshing and light dessert made with a blend of mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. This sorbet provides a tangy and fruity contrast to the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors of the cake.

Cake: Meyer Lemon Pound Cake (Japanese): A classic American cake made with lemon juice and zest, butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This cake has a light and zesty flavor that complements the richness of the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake.

Drink: Coffee (Global): A strong cup of black coffee or an espresso provides a bitter contrast to the sweet and rich flavors of the Nutella cake. The coffee can be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference.

ALTERNATIVES:

Dessert: Hazelnut Chocolate Babka (Poland): A twisty bread filled with layers of hazelnut chocolate spread and chopped hazelnuts. This Polish dessert shares the hazelnut chocolate flavor with the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake.

Cake: Ferrero Rocher Cake (Italy): A rich and decadent cake made with layers of chocolate sponge, hazelnut buttercream, and crushed Ferrero Rocher chocolates. This Italian cake is a luxurious treat for hazelnut chocolate lovers.

Dessert: Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (France): A buttery tart crust filled with a rich and creamy chocolate hazelnut ganache. This French dessert is perfect for those who love the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts.

Dessert: Nutella Stuffed Pancakes (United States): Fluffy pancakes filled with a dollop of Nutella and served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. This American breakfast dish is a treat for Nutella lovers.

Cake: Chocolate Hazelnut Roll Cake (Global): A soft and fluffy chocolate sponge cake rolled up with a hazelnut cream filling. This cake is similar to the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake but with a different presentation.

Dessert: Nutella Crepes (France): Thin and delicate crepes filled with Nutella and folded into quarters. This French dessert is simple yet delicious and is perfect for Nutella lovers.

Drink: Nutella Hot Chocolate (Global): A warm and comforting drink made with milk, Nutella, and a dash of vanilla extract. This drink is perfect for sipping on a cold day and shares the hazelnut chocolate flavor with the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake.

HISTORY:

The "Tapak Kuda," or "Horseshoe Cake," is a type of cake that is popular in Indonesia and Malaysia. It is a rolled sponge cake filled with various sweet fillings, most commonly chocolate or jam.

The Tapak Kuda Cake is often served during special occasions and celebrations within the Indonesian and Malay communities. It is commonly found at gatherings, celebrations, and during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The cake's horseshoe shape is said to symbolize good luck and is often associated with positive meanings.

While the traditional Tapak Kuda Cake is usually made with a simple sponge cake and filled with chocolate or jam, the Nutella version elevates the dish by adding a layer of luxuriousness. This modern twist on a classic recipe has helped the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake gain popularity outside of the Indonesian and Malay communities as well.

Today, the Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It can be found at bakeries and cafes in Indonesia, Malaysia, and even in other countries with a significant Indonesian or Malay population. The cake is also commonly made at home, and the recipe is passed down from generation to generation, with each family adding their unique twist to the classic recipe.

TIPS:

Layering the Batter: To achieve even layers, use a piping bag or a spoon to carefully place the batters in the pan. Smooth each layer with a spatula before adding the next one.

Rolling the Cake:

- Flexibility: Make sure the cake is still slightly warm. A warm cake is more flexible and less likely to crack when rolled. However, be careful not to roll it while it's too hot as it can cause the Nutella to melt and make a mess.

- Parchment Paper: Use a large piece of parchment paper to help with the rolling. Lay the cake on the parchment paper and use the paper to gently fold the cake into the horseshoe shape. The paper will help you get an even roll and prevent the cake from sticking to itself.
- Scoring: Very lightly scoring the cake on the surface where it will be folded can also help. Make a very shallow cut along the line where you plan to fold the cake. This will help the cake bend more easily at that point.

- Thickness: Be mindful of the thickness of your cake. A cake that is too thick will be more difficult to roll. Aim for a cake that is about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.

Ingredients:

Conversions and Servings: Cups (1 Cake · 6 Slices) Cups (2 Cakes · 12 Slices) Cups (3 Cakes · 18 Slices) Cups (4 Cakes · 24 Slices) Cups (5 Cakes · 30 Slices) Cups (6 Cakes · 36 Slices) Cups (8 Cakes · 48 Slices) Imperial (1 Cake · 6 Slices) Imperial (2 Cakes · 12 Slices) Imperial (3 Cakes · 18 Slices) Imperial (4 Cakes · 24 Slices) Imperial (5 Cakes · 30 Slices) Imperial (6 Cakes · 36 Slices) Imperial (8 Cakes · 48 Slices) Metric (1 Cake · 6 Slices) Metric (2 Cakes · 12 Slices) Metric (3 Cakes · 18 Slices) Metric (4 Cakes · 24 Slices) Metric (5 Cakes · 30 Slices) Metric (6 Cakes · 36 Slices) Metric (8 Cakes · 48 Slices)

Directions:

01 - Using an electric mixer, blend together the Eggs, Sugar, and Ovalette for approximately 8 minutes, or until the mixture takes on a thick and fluffy texture.

02 - Next, sift the Flour in alternating with the Milk, and Baking Powder. Keep mixing until all ingredients are well combined.

03 - Incorporate the cool melted Butter and Vanilla essence into the mixture and mix thoroughly.

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Preparing the Darker Layer:

04 - Separate one-fourth of the Batter and mix in a sufficient amount of Nutella and Cocoa Powder to both color and flavor the Batter. Set this portion aside for later.

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Assembling the Cake:

05 - Lay a sheet of parchment paper on the tray 23x33cm / 9x13in pan (or even a regular squared 25x25cm / 10x10in brownie pan), making sure it covers the entire surface and overlaps the edges slightly. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

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06 - Transfer the remaining plain Batter into a large piping bag.

07 - Spread a first layer of Chocolate Batter ( prepared in STEP 04 ) on the tray.

08 - Top the Chocolate layer with a layer of the white Batter from the piping bag prepared in STEP 06. Carefully squeeze out all the Batter over the Chocolate layer, and then, level it with a spatula.

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09 - Place the assembled cake into a preheated oven set at 180°C (356°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes.


Cooling and Finishing:

10 - After baking, allow the cake to cool outside the oven for approximately 10 minutes.

11 - Carefully remove the cake from the pan.

12 - With the same care, remove the paper from the cake and make a shallow cut in the middle of the cake. You don't want to cut the cake in half all the way through, just scoring it to make it easier to fold it. Some people can fold it without cutting the cake. So, totally up to you!

13 - Evenly spread a layer of Nutella on top of the dark layers.

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14 - Tightly but gently, using a sheet of parchment paper, fold the Cake into a horse shoes shape.

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15 - Wrap with cling wrap and store in the refrigerator for at least one hour.


Serving:

16 - Once chilled, slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your delicious homemade Nutella Tapak Kuda Cake!

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Notes:

Using Ovalette: Ovalette is a cake stabilizer that is commonly used in Asian baking. It helps the cake to rise and gives it a light and fluffy texture. If you can't find ovalette, you can use cake emulsifier as a substitute.

Baking: Preheat the oven properly before placing the cake inside. Baking time can vary based on the oven, so keep an eye on the cake after 20 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooling and Finishing: Allow the cake to cool properly before cutting and assembling it. If the cake is still warm, the Nutella spread can melt and make it difficult to handle.

Storing: The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can wrap the cake rolls in cling wrap and aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving.

Alternative Ingredients: If you prefer a different chocolate spread, you can substitute Nutella with any other chocolate spread of your choice.

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Written by: Uncut Recipes

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