Best 3 Chinese Steamed Cake Recipes

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Chinese steamed cake, also known as "ma lai gao," is a delectable treat that has captured the hearts of many with its light and fluffy texture, subtle sweetness, and distinctive honeycomb-like structure. Originating from the southern province of Guangdong in China, this traditional steamed cake has become a beloved dessert enjoyed across China and beyond. With its delightful flavor profile and versatility, Chinese steamed cake can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of toppings and fillings, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and step-by-step instructions necessary to create a perfect Chinese steamed cake, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and secrets behind this culinary delight.

Let's cook with our recipes!

CHINESE SPONGE CAKE (BAKED, NOT STEAMED)



Chinese Sponge Cake (Baked, Not Steamed) image

My mom used to make this cake when we we were growing up. I love it because it's light and fluffy. Please note, use an aluminum cake pan for this recipe (we've always used an aluminum angel food cake pan). Do NOT use a non-stick pan! I am on a quest to find the recipe for the Chinese bakery cakes. I'm not talking about those Chinese steamed sponge cakes. I'm in search of the fluffy ones that come with the fruit and whipped creamy frosting. If anyone knows this recipe, please forward to me--I will be forever grateful! In the meantime, this cake is the closest thing to it.

Provided by Mama_Cito95

Categories     Dessert

Time 1h30m

Yield 1 cake, 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

2 cups softasilk brand cake flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup oil
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup water
8 eggs (separated)
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond or coconut)

Steps:

  • Heat water and dissolve sugar. Let cool.
  • Mix yolk into sugar water.
  • Slowly add flour into the mixture.
  • Blend in oil and extract.
  • In a large bowl, beat egg whites until peaks are stiff. Add cream of tartar.
  • Fold batter from above into egg whites.
  • Pour combined batter into an UNGREASED aluminum cake pan (do NOT use a non-stick pan!).
  • Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes until done (when toothpick comes out clean).
  • Turn cake upside down and let cool.

MA LAI GO (STEAMED CHINESE SPONGE CAKE)



MA LAI GO (STEAMED CHINESE SPONGE CAKE) image

Categories     Cake     Steam

Yield 1 8in cake

Number Of Ingredients 7

4 Eggs
1 Egg Yolk
1 c. Sugar
1/2 tsp. Vanilla
1 c. Sifted cake flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt

Steps:

  • Beat eggs until light and foamy. Slowly add sugar while beating constantly. Add in vanilla. Mix remaining dry ingredients and fold into egg mixture. Pour batter into slightly greased pan. Steam for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

CHINESE STEAMED CAKE



Chinese Steamed Cake image

Although real Chinese dinners usually end with a piece of fruit, Western influence has caused a few changes. This cake uses Chinese techniques to make a French inspired, and extremely moist, sponge cake.

Provided by Kevin Ryan

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     Asian     Chinese

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 7

6 eggs
1 ¼ cups white sugar
2 ½ tablespoons water
1 ½ cups cake flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
¼ cup confectioners' sugar for dusting

Steps:

  • Arrange a large bamboo steamer or a large vegetable steamer over simmering water. Make sure it is large enough to hold the baking pan. Line a 9 inch square pan with waxed paper.
  • Separate the eggs. Place the yolks in a large bowl along with the sugar and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture has increased about three times in volume. Whisk together the flour and the baking powder; sift this over the egg mixture, and fold in gently. Blend in the extract.
  • Whip the egg whites in a clean bowl to stiff, not dry, peaks. Fold into yolk base. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and smooth out to edges. Rap the pan on the counter to get rid of large air bubbles.
  • Place the pan into the steamer. Cover the top of the steamer with a kitchen towel, and place the lid on top; the towel will absorb any steam that collects on top from dripping onto the cake. Steam for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Dust with confectioner's sugar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 193 calories, Carbohydrate 37.6 g, Cholesterol 93 mg, Fat 2.7 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 4.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.8 g, Sodium 55.8 mg, Sugar 23.6 g

Top 10 Baking Secrets for Beginners:

1. Chilling the Dough: Chilling the mixture helps the gluten to relax and makes it easier to work with, resulting in a more crumbly texture in cakes, cookies, and pastries. 2. Measuring Ingredients: Use precise measurements for accurate results. A kitchen scale is highly recommended for dry ingredients and liquids. 3. Mixing Methods: Use the right technique for each mixture; creaming butter and sugar together for cakes, beating egg whites and egg yolks for meringues, and gentle stirring for pancake batters. 4. Laminating: When working with puff pastry or Danish pastry, make sure to handle the mixture lightly and keep it chilled to avoid over-developing the gluten, which results in a tough texture. 5. Kneading Bread: Knead the bread mixture until it becomes smooth, silky, and bounces back when you press it. Use enough force to incorporate all the ingredients together and work the gluten. 6. Rolling Dough: Use a floured surface to roll out pie crusts, tarts, and other pastries. Rolling the mixture too thinly can lead to tearing or cracking during shaping or transferring. 7. Proving and Fermentation: For yeast-based bread, allow it to proof (or rise) in a warm, draft-free environment until it has doubled in size. Properly fermented bread will have a light and airy texture. 8. Baking: Use an accurate thermometer to ensure your gas or electric ovens are at the correct temperature. Baking times can vary, so adjust them as needed based on the size and type of baked goods. 9. Filling and Frosting: When using fillings or frostings, make sure they are at the right temperature and not too runny or warm. Filling cakes or pastries with cold or lukewarm fillings can prevent the mixture from setting properly. 10. Storage: Baking goods should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Some items like tarts or fruit-based pastries should be stored in the refrigerator to keep them from spoiling.

Conclusion:

Whether you're new to the kitchen or an experienced baker, these curated tips and the delicious cake recipe from our blog will help you achieve exquisite baked creations at home. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques, ingredients, and flavors. Baking is an art and a science that welcomes personal touches, so embrace your culinary journey and share your creations with friends and family. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step - start your next sweet endeavor today!

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