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Traditional Kutsinta (Steamed in a Pan)

Kutsinta with two layers: a firm, chewy bottom and a softer top.
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Filipino
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 152kcal
Author Nora Rey
Cost $4-$6

Equipment

  • Steamer
  • 8-inch round pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Strainer

Ingredients

Bottom Layer

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup tapioca flour cassava starch
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 cups lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon lye water
  • 1 teaspoon annatto powder
  • ½ teaspoon pandan extract or 1 teaspoon vanilla optional

Top Layer

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ teaspoon lye water
  • 1 teaspoon annatto powder
  • ¼ teaspoon pandan extract or ½ teaspoon vanilla optional

To Serve

  • Fresh grated coconut

Instructions

  • Bring the steamer water to a boil, keeping it below the rack. Grease an 8-inch round pan. If lining with banana leaf or parchment, grease the liner too.
  • Whisk the bottom layer ingredients until smooth. Strain into the prepared pan.
  • Cover and steam over medium-low to medium heat for about 15 minutes, until the surface is mostly set.
  • Whisk the top layer ingredients until smooth, then strain. Slowly pour over the bottom layer, starting around the edges.
  • Cover and steam for about 30 minutes, until the top is set and the center no longer jiggles. Add hot water to the steamer as needed.
  • Cool completely before slicing. Serve with grated coconut.

Notes

  • All-purpose flour: Helps the bottom layer hold its shape.
  • Tapioca flour: Adds chewiness. Also sold as cassava starch.
  • Glutinous rice flour: Makes the top layer soft and slightly sticky.
  • Annatto: Adds orange color. Use powder or soak seeds in hot water and use the colored water.
  • Brown sugar: Light, dark, or a mix works. Dark sugar makes darker kutsinta. Panutsa also works.
  • Pandan extract: Use clear extract to keep the color. Vanilla works, or leave it out.
  • Grated coconut: Use fresh or frozen. Avoid sweetened shredded coconut.

Nutrition

Calories: 152kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 44mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 20g | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg