Rainbow Jelly Cake with Agar-Agar (Print view)

Multi-layer agar-agar jelly in rainbow hues topped with silky coconut cream; dairy- and gluten-free, served chilled.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Agar-Agar Jelly Layers

01 - 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder (about 16 g)
02 - 900 ml water
03 - 200 g granulated sugar
04 - Food colorings: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

→ Coconut Cream Layer

06 - 400 ml coconut cream
07 - 200 ml water
08 - 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder (about 16 g)
09 - 100 g granulated sugar
10 - Pinch of salt

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder with 900 ml water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until agar-agar dissolves completely (about 3 minutes). Add 200 g sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until dissolved.
02 - Remove from heat and divide the clear agar mixture into 6 bowls. Add a few drops of each food coloring to create red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
03 - Pour the red layer into a rectangular or round mold (about 20 cm diameter). Let it cool for 5–8 minutes, until just set but not too firm. Repeat with orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple, allowing each layer to set before adding the next.
04 - In a clean saucepan, mix 2 tablespoons agar-agar powder with 200 ml water and 400 ml coconut cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring well. Add 100 g sugar and pinch of salt, stir until dissolved.
05 - Once the last jelly color has set, gently pour the warm coconut cream mixture over the rainbow layers. Allow to cool to room temperature.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until completely firm. Gently loosen edges and invert onto a serving plate.
07 - Cut into neat slices or cubes. Serve cold.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • You get bold, beautiful layers that always draw wide eyes and eager forks at any party.
  • The dreamy coconut cream softens the sweetness and feels cooling—especially on hot afternoons when you don’t want anything heavy.
02 -
  • If you don’t dissolve the agar-agar completely at the start, your kue will end up grainy—so give it time on the heat.
  • Letting each layer set just enough is crucial; pour the next color too soon and they’ll merge into a muddy rainbow, too late and they won’t bond well.
03 -
  • Take time to stir—rushing agar-agar means stubborn lumps.
  • A splash of rose or pandan turns this from pretty into irresistible.
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