The overwhelming response from the never-ending line at Bukit Panjang Plaza has prompted Ah Mah Homemade Cake to finally open a second outlet in VivoCity!
Singapore is the very first overseas outpost of this much beloved fluffy sponge cake founded in a humble Kuala Lumpur neighbourhood.
The Castella cake made its way to Japan in the 16th century via Chinese and Portuguese traders. Since its adaptation by the Japanese, the recipe of this delicate snack had been readjusted countless times in its 500 years of history before being readapted by the Taiwanese, and now our Northern Neighbours at Ah Mah to create a fluffier soufflé-like texture baked Castella.
To make the perfect Castella in Singapore, high quality AA eggs are specially sourced from local farm N&N and all cakes are baked fresh on the spot.
Like many, I can never resist the smell of Castella the baking oven, and judging from the phalanx of curious un-intentional crowd that had stopped their way or made a re-route
Ah Mah Homemade Cake came in two flavours; original ($8) and cheese ($11). To be fair, the flavours coming from the egg yolk were strong in both, so they were both pleasant in their own right. I thought the savoury notes coming from the cheese complemented the sweet buttery skin of the cake, so my preference steer towards the latter.
Texture wise, Ah Mah’s Castella was not as soft as chiffon and yet not as hard as pound. It was a Goldilocks golden ratio, and it reminded me when I first had Uncle Tetsu or Miki Ojisan’s Cheesecakes, except this time the eggs took centre stage and the cheese taking a back seat.
Do I prefer the modern take on this traditional recipe? I did, and I am hoping Ah Mah can do one with Pandan juice for National Day.
The above article is written by @ramenking2017. You can find him on instagram where he shares his love for food and travel.
Ah Mah Homemade Cake
Outlet 1. Bukit Panjang Plaza, 1 Jelebu Road, #01-18, Singapore 677743
Outlet 2. Vivo City, 1 Harbourfront Walk, #B2-K7, Singapore 098585
Operating Hours: 10am-10pm daily