Yema cake is a delicious and popular Filipino dessert that is enjoyed by people all over the world. This cake is made from a combination of sponge cake and yema frosting. Yema is a popular Filipino candy that is made from egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. The cake is sweet and creamy and has a unique taste that is loved by everyone who tries it. In this article, we will explore the history of yema cake, its origins, and how it has become a staple in Filipino cuisine.
What is Yema Cake?
Yema cake is a type of cake that is made with sponge cake and yema frosting. The sponge cake is light and fluffy, while the yema frosting is sweet and creamy. Yema frosting is made from condensed milk, egg yolks, and sugar. This frosting is boiled until it thickens, and then it is used to cover the sponge cake. The cake is usually served chilled, and it is a popular dessert in the Philippines.
Origins of Yema Cake
The origins of yema cake can be traced back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. The Spanish colonizers introduced various sweets and desserts to the Filipino people, and one of these was yema. Yema is a type of candy that is made from egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. Over time, Filipinos started using yema as a frosting for cakes and other desserts. This led to the creation of yema cake.
Yema Cake’s Rise to Popularity
Yema cake became popular in the Philippines in the 1980s. At that time, there were only a few bakeries that sold yema cake. However, as its popularity grew, more and more bakeries started offering it. Today, yema cake is a staple in Filipino bakeries and can be found in many restaurants and dessert shops.
Making Yema Cake at Home
Yema cake can be made at home using simple ingredients. To make the sponge cake, you will need flour, sugar, eggs, and baking powder. The yema frosting is made from condensed milk, egg yolks, and sugar. The frosting is boiled until it thickens, and then it is used to cover the sponge cake. You can also add some grated cheese on top of the frosting for added flavor.
Yema Cake Variations
There are many variations of yema cake. Some bakers add fruit to the cake, while others use different types of frosting. Some people even make yema cupcakes or cake pops. Yema cake is a versatile dessert that can be customized to suit different tastes.
Yema Cake in Filipino Culture
Yema cake has become a symbol of Filipino culture. It is often served at special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and fiestas. Filipinos also enjoy yema cake as a snack or dessert after a meal.
Yema Cake in Modern Times
In modern times, yema cake has become even more popular, not only in the Philippines but also in other parts of the world. Filipino bakeries in the United States, Canada, and Australia offer yema cake, and many people have started making it at home. The popularity of yema cake has also led to the creation of other desserts that use yema as a filling or frosting.
Yema Cake’s Global Appeal
Yema cake’s popularity has also spread to other parts of the world. It is now a common dessert in many Asian countries, including China, Japan, and South Korea. Yema cake is also gaining popularity in Europe and the United States, where Filipino cuisine is becoming more mainstream.
FAQs
Yema cake is different from other cakes because of its unique frosting. Yema frosting is made from condensed milk, egg yolks, and sugar and has a sweet and creamy taste.
Yema cake can be made without condensed milk, but the taste and texture may be different. Condensed milk gives yema frosting its signature sweet and creamy taste.
Yema cake is not gluten-free because it is made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. However, there are gluten-free versions of yema cake that use alternative flours.
Yema cake should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
Yema cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. After that, it may start to lose its flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Yema cake is a delicious Filipino dessert that has a rich history and a unique taste. Its popularity has grown over the years, and it has become a staple in Filipino cuisine. Yema cake’s versatility and adaptability have made it a dessert that can be enjoyed by people all over the world.
