Can I use frozen grated cassava?

Yes. Thaw fully, then drain only visibly separated liquid before weighing. Over-squeezing can make the finished cake less tender.

Can I steam instead of bake?

Yes. Steam over medium heat until set, then add the cheese topping and continue steaming until melted.

Substitute for coconut cream?

Full-fat coconut milk works, though the final cake will be slightly lighter and less rich.

Young Coconut Cassava Cake (Buko Cassava Cake)

Name: Young Coconut Cassava Cake (Buko Cassava Cake)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 600 g cassava (grated; fresh or frozen and thawed; well mixed); 56 g butter (unsalted, softened); 100 g sugar (white); 177 ml evaporated milk (half a standard tin); 396 g sweetened condensed milk (one standard tin); 3 large eggs (3 whole eggs); 2 large egg yolks (for richness); 590 ml coconut cream (full-fat); 120 ml coconut water; 1 pinch salt (fine); 80 g young coconut (shredded); 85 g cheddar cheese (grated)

This young coconut cassava cake, also called buko cassava cake, is for bakers who want more texture than a smooth classic cassava cake. The young coconut folded into the batter gives each slice a tender, lightly chewy coconut bite, while the cheese topping keeps the finish salty-sweet and familiar.

The batter stays straightforward: cassava for structure, coconut cream and condensed milk for richness, and a little butter to round out the texture. The young coconut is what makes this version distinct. It adds extra body and a more pronounced coconut character, which helps separate it from other cassava cake pages in the cluster.

For the best result, check the center before adding the cheese. The cakes should already look set around the edges and only slightly soft in the middle. Once cooled, store the slices chilled and bring them to room temperature if you want a softer, more custardy texture when serving.

Why Young Coconut Changes The Texture

Young coconut gives the cake a little more chew and moisture than a plain cassava batter. Instead of reading as only soft and dense, the finished slices feel slightly more layered, which works especially well if you want a dessert that tastes more coconut-forward.

Best Way To Serve It

This is a good version for holiday trays, potlucks, or small-square dessert platters. Chill it well, slice it cleanly, and let it sit for a few minutes before serving if you want the center to soften slightly.

If you want a more pronounced sweet-savory contrast, do not be shy with the cheese topping. That salty finish is part of what keeps the cake from tasting one-note, especially when the base includes condensed milk and coconut cream.

If you want a smoother, all-purpose Filipino cassava cake without the young coconut texture, see Filipino Cassava Cake.