Apam balik

Apam balik

Apam balik is a delightful Malaysian pancake filled with a sweet and crunchy mix of corn, peanuts, and sugar. This treat is perfect for a warm snack or dessert, enjoyed best fresh off the pan.

Dessert

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

4

Apam balik is a popular street food in Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia, renowned for its crispy edges and soft, fluffy inside. Traditionally, it is filled with a mixture of sweet corn, crushed peanuts, sugar, and occasionally butter, offering a hearty yet sweet flavor combination. The batter is traditionally made with simple ingredients such as flour, eggs, and milk, lending the pancake a tender texture and a golden brown hue when cooked. This snack is often enjoyed as a light breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, perfectly paired with a cup of tea or coffee. Its sweet and nutty flavors balance well with creamy beverages or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a modern twist. Apam balik's unique folding method not only makes it visually appealing but also locks in the melted butter and filling, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Beyond its delicious taste, apam balik carries cultural significance as a cherished treat during festivals and family gatherings, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. Making this dish at home allows you to experience a slice of Malaysian culinary heritage while enjoying a simple but satisfying snack.

Ingredients

  • 200 ml Milk
  • 60 ml Oil
  • 2 Eggs
  • 3 tsp Baking Powder
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 25 g Unsalted Butter
  • 45 g Sugar
  • 3 tb Peanut Butter

Instructions

Begin by whisking together the milk, oil, and eggs in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure there are no lumps, creating a light and airy batter when mixed. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a uniform batter forms without any streaks of flour. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable, perfect for spreading thinly onto the pan. Preheat your non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it if necessary. Pour a ladle of batter onto the center of the pan and use the back of the ladle to spread it out towards the edges, forming a thin, even layer. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until you notice small air bubbles forming on the surface — a sign that the pancake is cooking through. Once the bottom surface turns a lovely golden brown, quickly add a knob of unsalted butter, a generous spoonful of cream corn, crushed peanuts, and a sprinkle of sugar onto one side of the pancake. The heat will begin to melt the butter and soften the sugar, creating a delightful gooey filling. Carefully fold the pancake in half to enclose the filling, pressing gently to hold its shape. Allow it to cook for another minute to meld the flavors and ensure the filling is warm and slightly caramelized. Remove from the pan and cut into wedges while still warm for the best taste experience. Tip: Serve immediately for a crispy texture on the outside and a melty, flavorful center. You can substitute peanut butter for crushed peanuts for a different twist on the filling. Enjoy your apam balik as a quick snack or dessert paired with your favorite hot beverage.

Quick Info

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4