Stories The perfect Valentine’s bake: More than just ingredients

Baking is much like love – full of care, a desire to connect, and meant to be shared.

Chef Pramono, our in-house pastry expert, understands this better than most. To him, food is more than just nourishment; it’s a way to create moments that bring people together – a lesson he first learnt in his mother’s kitchen. Now, with years of experience under his belt, he continues to infuse passion into every bake, spreading joy with every creation.

This Valentine’s Day, join us as Chef Pramono shares his journey inspiration, and the little details that make every bake a true labour of love.

Rooted in family, driven by passion

Chef Pramono’s journey to becoming a celebrated pastry chef began in his family kitchen. As a child, he spent countless hours helping his mother prepare family meals. Her joy and passion for cooking left a lasting impression on him – a spark that eventually led him to pursue the culinary arts.

“My journey started with the Hotel Borobudur’s Apprenticeship Programme. It was a year of hands-on learning,” he shares.

“It was during that time that I met my teacher – who inspired me with his passion, attention to detail, and drive to bring joy through deliciousness. I carry that with me even now,” he says.

Now, at Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food, Chef Pramono has the opportunity to share that same passion with a much wider audience. “The sheer scale and reach of the company allow me to share my knowledge, creativity, and love for baking with countless people – whether through training, product innovation, or creating memorable experiences through our baked goods.”

Chef Pramono’s career has spanned prestigious hotels and a decade-long role as a Technical Advisor in a food service company, where he honed his expertise in premium baking ingredients. “Over the years, I’ve educated sales teams, demonstrated product applications and presented final creations to customers, building confidence in what we offer,” he shares.

At Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food, he continues to guide others in creating high-quality baked goods, emphasising how the right ingredients and techniques can elevate the final product.

“I’m always learning from baking traditions around the world – whether it’s studying yeast fermentation in Belgium and China, bread mix and flavour techniques in Germany, chocolate craftsmanship in Singapore, or exploring the latest baking trends. My goal is to bring that knowledge back to help our customers overcome challenges and make even more delicious products.”

But Chef Pramono also believes Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage holds treasures waiting to be shared with the world. “I’m passionate about showcasing our unique flavours and traditional techniques,” he says, having already introduced Indonesian cuisine to audiences in Paris, Sydney, Colombo, and beyond.

Celebrating love through baking

For Chef Pramono, baking is all about creating joy and connection – especially when it comes to Valentine’s Day. And to get it right, the devil is in the details.

“Delicious desserts start with choosing not just great ingredients, but the right ingredient for the job.”

“For a tender, moist cake, you need an ingredient that gives you just the right aeration while locking in moisture. FILMA Prestige Butter Blend Margarine does just that, providing rich dairy flavour and perfect rise.”

“Similarly, for decoration creams, you need an icing that spreads smoothly and holds its shape. FILMA Baker’s Cream Fat is ideal – creating a stable, smooth finish that’s perfect for precise designs that last.”

But it’s not just about the ingredients. “Presentation enhances the whole experience,” says Chef Pramono. “When you thoughtfully pair the flavours and colours to suit the occasion – people will feel the love you put into it.” His Valentine’s cake design, inspired by hearts, flowers, and timeless romantic symbols, perfectly reflects this philosophy.

Chef Pramono’s baking tips for Valentine’s Day

Inspired to recreate Chef Pramono’s Valentine’s cake or put your own spin on it? Here are his top tips:

Start with the right ingredients

Choose quality ingredients with the right properties for better flavour and texture.

Master the batter

Use the flip test – scoop a spoonful of batter and flip it. If it flows too quickly, mix longer. If it falls slowly, it’s ready.

Handle cream fat gently

Let FILMA Baker’s Cream Fat reach room temperature before mixing and always mix slowly in one direction to maintain its smooth consistency.

Crafting something meaningful this Valentine’s Day

For Chef Pramono, baking goes beyond making something sweet – it’s about the care in every detail. This Valentine’s Day, take inspiration from his thoughtful approach and create a treat that speaks from the heart.