Patriotic cakes have emerged not merely as desserts but as edible expressions of national pride: beneath layers of fondant and cream lie hope and love for the country.

For baker and entrepreneur Hilaliyah Mohamed Hanif, 50, creating patriotic cakes is about more than just fulfilling customer requests. “The patriotic spirit naturally seeps in,” she told Bernama.

“Over the past 16 years, I have made more than 10 patriotic-themed cakes for Merdeka Day, including a savoury one made of pulut kuning (turmeric-infused glutinous rice).”

Her designs are often inspired by cultural elements such as songket patterns, wau, hibiscus, traditional “tanjak” headgear, and iconic landmarks in Malaysia.

“These symbols may be familiar, but on cakes, they evoke a deep sense of pride – both in the maker and the person enjoying it,” she said.

Among her most memorable works was a cake shaped like a book, created for Teacher’s Day in 2015 and inspired by the poem “Guru Oh Guru” by national laureate Usman Awang.

“Although it wasn’t for Merdeka, it carried strong patriotic value by honouring educators. It shows national pride can be expressed in many forms,” Hilaliyah added.

The trend is also gaining traction in the hospitality sector, with one hotel here offering Jalur Gemilang-themed cupcakes to boost the Merdeka spirit among guests.

According to head pastry chef Muzaffar Shah Yusoff, 51, cake-making has become a creative medium that connects people with national identity and values.

“Our cupcakes are visually appealing and carry a message that patriotism can be expressed in light-hearted and creative ways,” he shared.

Muzaffar, who has created large-scale patriotic cakes including a 3m-by-1.5m version featuring national elements, said such projects require meticulous preparation.

“It is challenging, but the reward comes when guests are moved. It motivates us to keep creating cakes that embody the patriotic spirit and tell stories of our history, culture and the Malaysian spirit,” he concluded.