Decadent Louise Cake with Raspberry Jam and Coconut Bliss
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by enricorecipez
When the sweetness of fresh raspberries meets the fluffy charm of coconut meringue, you know you re in for a treat. I discovered Louise Cake while exploring traditional recipes, and it immediately captivated my heart. This delightful dessert layers a buttery base with a generous dollop of jam, topped off with a cloud-like meringue that’s perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
Whether you re hosting a weekend gathering or simply craving a sweet escape from your usual routine, this cake is bound to impress. It s surprisingly easy to make, so you can say goodbye to those mundane fast-food desserts. Plus, every bite is a nostalgic reminder of grandma s kitchen, where every treat was made with love.
Get ready to savor the contrast of flavors and textures in this luscious Louise Cake you won t be able to resist going back for another slice!
Why is Louise Cake a must-try?
Irresistible layers: The buttery cake base plush with tangy raspberry jam lays the groundwork for a heavenly dessert experience.
Coconut meringue magic: The airy topping, made from whipped egg whites and coconut, adds both texture and flavor that will keep your taste buds dancing.
Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you ll have a stunning dessert that comes together in about 35 minutes.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Customizable: Swap the raspberry jam for your favorite flavor, making this a versatile treat for any occasion!
Marvel at how a slice of this Louise Cake can take you on a delightful flavor journey!
Louise Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
Unsalted butter 115 g, at room temperature gives the cake its rich, buttery flavor.
Caster sugar 110 g, enhances sweetness and helps create a light texture.
Large egg yolks 3, at room temperature, adds richness to the cake.
Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste ½ tsp, infuses delightful aroma and flavor.
Kosher salt ½ tsp, balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Baking powder 1 tsp, helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
All-purpose flour 220 g, forms the structure of the cake.
For the Jam Layer
Raspberry jam 160 g, or jam of your choice, provides a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
For the Meringue Topping
Large egg whites 5 (about 190 g), critical for achieving that cloud-like meringue texture.
Caster sugar 280 g, sweetens and stabilizes the meringue.
Vanilla bean paste (optional) ¼ tsp, if used, boosts the vanilla flavor even more.
Shredded coconut 165 g, adds a delightful chew and tropical twist to the meringue.
Replace the raspberry jam with your favorite spread to personalize your Louise Cake even further!
How to Make Louise Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9″ (23 cm) pan with parchment paper, letting it extend over both sides to create a handy ‘sling’. Secure with metal binder clips if you like!
Cream together the butter and 110 g caster sugar in a medium bowl using an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Combine the salt, baking powder, and flour, mixing on low speed until just blended. Finish mixing by hand gently to avoid overworking the batter.
Spread the base mixture into the prepared tin, crumbling it evenly before patting it down to ensure it s flat and smooth.
Top the base with raspberry jam, spreading it out for an even layer. Set it aside while you prepare the Swiss meringue topping.
Heat the egg whites and 280 g sugar in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, whisking frequently, until it feels smooth and registers at least 160°F (70°C) on a thermometer.
Whip the mixture until thick, glossy, and starting to form stiff peaks, about 3-5 minutes, using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add vanilla (if using) and fold in the shredded coconut to create a deliciously airy meringue.
Spread the coconut meringue evenly over the jam layer, ensuring no peaks are sticking up.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the meringue is golden brown and invitingly crisp.
Cool on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before using the parchment to lift it from the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Louise Cake?
Delight your senses by creating a complete meal experience around this exquisite dessert.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or blueberries enhances the sweetness of the cake, providing a vibrant pop of flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over a warm slice of cake, elevating its indulgent charm.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious touch, complementing the cake’s textures while intensifying the dessert experience.
- Coconut Macaroons: For coconut lovers, pair with these chewy treats for an extra tropical vibe that harmonizes beautifully.
- Espresso or Coffee: A rich, bold cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness and balances the dessert without overpowering it.
- Chilled Lemonade: The refreshing zing of homemade lemonade offers a delightful contrast while keeping your palate refreshed.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top introduces a rich element, bringing a deeper flavor to the lovely raspberry jam.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light, fruity sorbet offers a zesty, refreshing finish that perfectly pairs with the sweetness of the cake.
- Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your overall tasting experience with every layer of flavor.
Louise Cake Variations
Let your creativity shine while preparing this delicious cake, and explore the delightful possibilities!
- Fruit Jam Swap: Replace raspberry jam with your favorite flavor, such as apricot or strawberry, for a unique twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 100 g of chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the coconut meringue for added crunch.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Incorporate 50 g of cocoa powder into the cake batter for a rich, chocolaty base that pairs wonderfully with any jam.
- Coconut-Free: If you aren’t a fan of coconut, leave it out and add a dash of lemon zest to the meringue for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste.
- Spicy Touch: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a warm, spiced aroma that s simply irresistible.
- Lemon Zing: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the meringue once cooled for a refreshing citrus complement to the sweetness.
- Meringue Variations: Try adding matcha powder or crushed freeze-dried fruits to the meringue for a colorful and flavorful surprise!
Explore these variations and turn your Louise Cake into a personal masterpiece that reflects your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Louise Cake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered at room temperature to keep it fresh. Additionally, the Swiss meringue can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply let it come to room temperature before spreading it over the jam layer. When you’re ready to bake, just spread the meringue on top of the jam layer and bake according to the instructions. This way, you ll have a delicious dessert at your fingertips with minimal hassle, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the delightful experience of homemade Louise Cake!
Storage Tips for Louise Cake
- Room Temperature: Store the Louise Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, store the cake in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze slices of the Louise Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
- Reheating: If you want to warm up a slice, microwave it for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until just warm, adding a delightful softness back to the meringue.
Expert Tips for Louise Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise in your Louise Cake.
- Don t Overmix: When combining the flour, mix only until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake that lacks fluffiness.
- Use a Thermometer: When heating the egg whites, use a kitchen thermometer to avoid gritty meringue. Aim for 160°F (70°C) for perfect results.
- Spread Evenly: When adding the raspberry jam and meringue, ensure it’s spread evenly to achieve a consistent texture and flavor throughout.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the meringue set properly, preventing it from collapsing.
Louise Cake Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best raspberries for my Louise Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting raspberries, look for bright red, plump berries that are firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear mushy, as these may be overripe. A little tartness complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully!
What s the best way to store leftover Louise Cake?
Very importantly, store your Louise Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it chilled or want to extend its freshness, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before enjoying a slice for the best texture!
Can I freeze slices of Louise Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or aluminum foil. This keeps your cake fresh for up to 3 months. When you re ready to indulge, simply thaw a slice in the fridge overnight, or take it out for a couple of hours before enjoying. You can also reheat it gently in a microwave for a few seconds!
What if my meringue doesn t rise properly?
If your meringue isn t rising, it could be due to residual fat in your mixing bowl or whisk. Make sure to clean them thoroughly before starting. It s also crucial to whisk the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. If they remain runny, keep whipping until the texture is glossy and holds peaks firmly.
Is there a gluten-free option for this Louise Cake?
Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in the same quantity. Just make sure it s a blend that contains xanthan gum, or add 1/4 tsp of xanthan gum per cup of flour to help bind the cake together.
Can pets eat any of the ingredients in the Louise Cake?
It s best to keep your Louise Cake away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and chocolate (if added later) aren t suitable for dogs or cats. The coconut isn t toxic, but it s not necessary for their diet and could upset their stomachs. Always consult your vet if you re unsure!