Thai Sweets Recipe: How to Make Thai Pandan Cake for Soft and Fluffy Traditional Delight

For those craving a soft and aromatic Thai dessert, finding the perfect Thai pandan cake recipe can be a challenge. Many people struggle to replicate the signature texture and fragrance of this classic treat. Sometimes the cake turns out too dry, lacks flavor, or the pandan aroma doesn’t shine through. But with the right Thai sweets recipe and careful preparation, you can achieve that soft and fluffy texture along with the authentic taste that makes pandan cake so popular across Thailand. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or someone looking for a unique recipe to try at home, this guide will provide everything you need to know—from selecting quality ingredients to baking techniques. Explore this step-by-step Thai pandan cake recipe that simplifies the process while honoring traditional flavors.

Easy Thai Pandan Cake Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Thai coconut pandan cake recipe, using fresh and quality ingredients is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 large eggs, room temperature
100g cake flour (sifted)
1 tsp baking powder
80ml pandan juice (from blended pandan leaves + water)
1 tsp pandan essence (optional for stronger aroma)
100g granulated sugar
60ml vegetable oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cream of tartar
50ml coconut milk (for richness)

This recipe is designed to yield a light, moist, and airy sponge. The combination of pandan juice and coconut milk offers a subtle sweetness with a tropical note that makes this cake irresistible.

How to Make Thai Pandan Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions

Mastering this traditional Thai dessert with pandan starts with careful mixing and baking. Follow these directions closely for best results:

Prepare pandan juice: Blend 5–6 fresh pandan leaves with 100ml water. Strain to extract 80ml of pure juice.
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a 7-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Separate eggs: In two bowls, separate the yolks from the whites.
Yolk mixture: In a large bowl, combine egg yolks, pandan juice, coconut milk, oil, and pandan essence. Mix well.
Dry ingredients: Sift in cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and lump-free.
Whip egg whites: Beat the egg whites until foamy. Add cream of tartar and gradually add sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form.
Combine mixtures: Gently fold the meringue into the yolk batter in 3 additions. Use a spatula to preserve the airiness.
Bake: Pour into the pan. Tap to release air bubbles. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool: Invert the pan and let the cake cool completely to avoid collapse.

This method results in a soft and fluffy pandan cake with a light sponge texture, perfect as an afternoon tea dessert or festive offering.

Tips for Perfecting Soft and Fluffy Thai Pandan Cake at Home

If you’ve ever wondered how bakeries get their soft and fluffy pandan cake just right, here are insider tips that can make your homemade version just as amazing:

Use fresh pandan leaves for the best fragrance, but add pandan essence if desired for a stronger aroma.
Do not overmix the batter; this can deflate the foam and cause dense cakes.
Always invert the cake immediately after baking to prevent shrinkage.
Make sure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for optimal rise.
Do not open the oven door while baking as it can cause the cake to collapse.

Practicing this recipe a few times will help you refine your technique and reach the perfect result every time.

Why Thai Coconut Pandan Cake Is a Beloved Traditional Dessert

Thai pandan cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a cultural experience that brings comfort, nostalgia, and tropical flavor to every bite. Known for its vibrant green color and soft texture, it’s often found at local markets, family gatherings, and even in modern cafes. The aroma of pandan leaf and the creamy undertone of coconut milk make it uniquely Thai. Whether served on its own or with a cup of tea, this cake symbolizes the simplicity and richness of Thai sweets. According to TasteAtlas, Thai coconut-based desserts are ranked among the best in the world due to their harmonious balance of natural ingredients and delicate flavors.

If you’re looking to impress guests or try your hand at authentic Southeast Asian baking, making a Thai pandan cake at home is a delightful culinary adventure that’s surprisingly easy and deeply rewarding.

Conclusion: Mastering Thai Sweets at Home with This Thai Pandan Cake Recipe

Now that you know how to make Thai pandan cake from scratch, you can enjoy a piece of Thailand right in your kitchen. This step-by-step recipe ensures you get the texture, flavor, and aroma just right. With just a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can recreate this iconic Thai sweets recipe anytime. Whether you’re cooking for a festive occasion or simply want to explore traditional Thai desserts, this pandan cake is a great place to start.

Try it today and bring the warm, fragrant joy of Thai coconut pandan cake to your home kitchen!