Looking for a sweet, colourful treat that’s sure to delight both kids and adults? Allow us to introduce you to Cantik Manis, a traditional Indonesian snack that translates to “beautiful and sweet” — and it certainly lives up to its name!
This easy-to-make dessert combines silky coconut layers with chewy, colourful tapioca pearls. Perfect for family bonding or impressing your guests with something unique, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Indonesia. 🇮🇩🐻🐰🐱
A big thank you to @joshieandbella for sharing this wonderful recipe with us! Let’s dive into it so you can create your own beautiful and sweet treats at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part A
- 50g tapioca pearls
- 500ml water
- Your choice of food colouring
Part B
- 60g mung bean powder starch (Hun Kwe Flour)
- 120g sugar
- 300ml water
- 300ml coconut milk
- Pandan leaves
- Pandan essence
You can find all of these ingredients at your local Asian grocer. Trust us, the hunt is worth it for this delightful treat!
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Tapioca Pearls
Bring 500ml of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
Add the tapioca pearls to the boiling water along with a few drops of your favourite food colouring. Stir well to distribute the colour evenly.
Let the pearls boil for 5 minutes, then remove the pot from heat. Allow the pearls to sit in the hot water for an additional 20 minutes.
Drain the tapioca pearls and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
Step 2: Create the Coconut Mixture
In another pot, combine all the ingredients listed under Part B, except for the pandan essence. Add the pandan leaves to infuse a fragrant, authentic flavour.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Keep going until the mixture thickens and starts bubbling gently.
Step 3: Divide and Flavour
Once the coconut mixture has reached the desired consistency, divide it into two portions.
Mix the prepared tapioca pearls into one half of the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Add a few drops of pandan essence to the other half and stir until the mixture turns a beautiful green hue.
Step 4: Mould and Set
Spoon the two mixtures into your We Might Be Tiny Freeze & Bake Poddies, layering them however you like to create a stunning contrast of colours and textures.
Place the moulds in the fridge and let the Cantik Manis set for at least 1 hour.
Time to Enjoy!
Once set, gently pop your Cantik Manis out of the Poddies and admire your edible works of art. These little snacks are perfect for sharing with family and friends or serving as a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. The combination of creamy coconut, chewy tapioca pearls, and fragrant pandan will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Tag us and share your creations using #CantikManis and #WeMightBeTiny for a chance to be featured. Happy cooking and selamat menikmati (enjoy your meal)! 🍏🌊
