Indulge in the delightful flavors of this purple yam coconut cake. This unique dessert, known as Kao hlaingti mont, combines the earthy sweetness of purple yam with the rich creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
When preparing this recipe, you might need to visit a specialty store for purple yam. Unlike regular yams, purple yam has a distinct color and flavor that is essential for this cake. Additionally, ensure you have coconut milk on hand, which can usually be found in the international or baking aisle of your supermarket.

Ingredients For Purple Yam Coconut Cake
Purple yam: Grated to provide a unique color and earthy sweetness to the cake.
Coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the tropical flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the flavors.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and stability to the cake.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, fragrant aroma and flavor.
Technique Tip for Making This Cake
When grating the purple yam, ensure that you use a fine grater to achieve a smooth texture in the batter. This will help the yam blend seamlessly with the coconut milk and other ingredients, resulting in a more uniform and tender cake.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
purple yam - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative.
coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar creamy texture, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor and moisture.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free flour can be used without significantly changing the texture.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mixing baking soda with cream of tartar can replicate the leavening effect of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a slightly different mineral content.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor to the cake.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cake
How to Store or Freeze This Cake
Allow the purple yam coconut cake to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the cake soggy.
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that the entire surface is covered to keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out.
Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container. This adds an extra layer of protection against air and moisture, preserving the cake's freshness.
Store the cake at room temperature if you plan to consume it within 2-3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
For longer storage, refrigerate the cake. It can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Make sure it is well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
To freeze the cake, first wrap it in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain the cake's texture.
Label the wrapped cake with the date before placing it in the freezer. This helps you keep track of how long it has been stored.
Freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps to maintain the cake's moisture and texture.
Once thawed, bring the cake to room temperature before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes the purple yam and coconut elements more pronounced.
If you prefer a warm slice, you can reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the leftover purple yam coconut cake in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the wrapped cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's moist texture.
Microwave Method: Place a slice of the cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the cake and continue to heat in 10-second intervals if necessary. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the cake rubbery.
Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, this method can be quite effective. Place the cake on a heatproof plate and set it in the steamer. Steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to keep the cake moist and soft.
Stovetop Method: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place a slice of the cake in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can give the cake a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cake on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method is quick and convenient, especially for smaller portions.
Best Tools for Making This Cake
Oven: Used to bake the cake at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the grated purple yam, coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Mixing bowl: Used to sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Sifter: Used to sift the dry ingredients to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
Whisk: Used to mix the wet ingredients together until well combined.
Spatula: Used to fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently.
Baking pan: Used to hold the batter while it bakes in the oven.
Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center of the cake.
Grater: Used to grate the purple yam.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients accurately.
Cooling rack: Used to let the cake cool down after baking.
How to Save Time on Making This Cake
Pre-grate the yam: Grate the purple yam in advance and store it in the fridge to save time on prep day.
Use canned coconut milk: Opt for canned coconut milk to avoid the hassle of making it from scratch.
Measure ingredients beforehand: Measure out all your ingredients and have them ready to streamline the mixing process.
One-bowl method: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the batter to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Purple Yam Coconut Cake Recipe (Kao hlaingti mont)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Purple yam, grated
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated purple yam, coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Cake
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