Embark on a delightful journey with this Chinese Egg Cake recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cakes offer a wonderful blend of lightness and flavor. The airy texture combined with a subtle sweetness makes them an unforgettable dessert that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and let each bite transport you to the heart of traditional Chinese baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious cakes in no time.
- Light and Fluffy Texture: Achieved through the careful whipping of eggs, these cakes are irresistibly airy.
- Versatile Treat: Great for tea time, celebrations, or as an everyday snack; they suit any occasion.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using just a few pantry staples means you can make them anytime without special shopping trips.
- Cultural Experience: Making Chinese Egg Cakes connects you to a rich culinary tradition that’s fun to explore.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. They will help ensure your Chinese Egg Cake turns out perfectly every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Muffin tin
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl provides ample space for whipping eggs and sugar, crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating eggs to the ribbon stage, ensuring fluffy results.
- Muffin tin: Perfectly shapes your cakes while allowing even baking for that golden finish.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- 2 middle-size eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about ½ c)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 5 grams oil (olive oil or other vegetable oil, roughly ¾ tsp)
- Warm water as needed (optional)
How to Make Chinese Egg Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures your cakes bake evenly as soon as they are ready.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixing Setup
Take a container and fill it halfway with water. Place your mixing bowl on top of this container. This method helps maintain warmth during mixing.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar
In the mixing bowl, combine eggs and castor sugar. Beat them together at high speed until they become light and fluffy. This process should take about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture reaches a flowing ribbon stage.
Step 4: Fold in Cake Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour. Gently fold it into the mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter to maintain its airy texture.
Step 5: Add Oil
Pour in the oil. Stir until it is fully blended with the batter. This adds moisture while contributing to a beautiful golden crust.
Step 6: Line Muffin Tin
Line your muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are well-covered. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour the batter into each cup of the muffin tin. Fill them about two-thirds full for optimal rising.
Step 8: Bake
Position the muffin tin on the oven rack. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until their tops turn a lovely golden color.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation!
Once baked, let your Chinese Egg Cakes cool slightly before savoring each delightful bite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or at room temperature!
How to Serve Chinese Egg Cake
Chinese Egg Cakes are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their light texture and subtle sweetness make them versatile for different occasions.
With Tea
- Pair with your favorite tea for a classic experience. The gentle flavors of the cake complement black or green tea beautifully.
As a Dessert
- Serve them as a light dessert after dinner. Their airy composition makes them a perfect end to any meal without being too heavy.
Breakfast Delight
- Enjoy them for breakfast with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. They provide a sweet start to your day!
Topped with Fresh Fruit
- Add fresh berries or sliced fruits for a refreshing twist. The natural sweetness of the fruit enhances the flavors of the cake.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your Chinese Egg Cake. It adds creaminess and extra sweetness, perfect for special occasions.
As Party Treats
- Slice them into smaller pieces and serve at gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them popular among guests.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
Creating the perfect Chinese Egg Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cakes turn out wonderfully every time.
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Whip Eggs Well: Achieving the right texture starts with whipping the eggs and sugar until fluffy and voluminous.
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Sift Flour Carefully: Sifting the flour helps prevent lumps and ensures an even distribution in the batter, contributing to a smooth texture.
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Gentle Folding: When incorporating flour, fold gently to maintain airiness in the batter, which gives the cake its lightness.
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Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An accurate temperature guarantees even baking and prevents sogginess.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cakes as they bake. The golden tops are a sign that they are ready but be cautious not to overbake them.
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Cool Properly: Let the cakes cool in the tin briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess from steam buildup.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Chinese Egg Cakes pair nicely with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here’s a list of complementary options you might consider serving alongside.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and contrasts well with the sweetness of the cake.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the soft texture of the egg cakes.
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Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can balance out the sweetness, making it an excellent addition to your meal.
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Steamed Bun Bites: Serve small steamed buns filled with savory ingredients; they create an interesting textural contrast alongside egg cakes.
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Sesame Balls: These sweet, chewy treats can add variety to your dessert table and complement the flavors of Chinese Egg Cake well.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: A delicate herbal tea can enhance your tasting experience, providing soothing notes that pair nicely with these cakes.
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Mini Spring Rolls: These crispy bites add a savory element that balances out the sweetness of the egg cakes perfectly.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk Dip: Offering this dip allows guests to customize their experience by adding richness to each bite of cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chinese Egg Cakes, it’s easy to encounter pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can hinder the whipping process. Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense cakes. Gently fold in the flour and oil to maintain fluffiness.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing in the cakes.
- Ignoring baking time: Each oven can vary, so keep an eye on your cakes. Check for a golden top around 15 minutes, but adjust as needed.
- Using incorrect measurements: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the flour and sugar.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store Chinese Egg Cakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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- Containers: Use an airtight container to prevent drying out.
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- Layering: If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
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- Duration: These cakes freeze well for up to 2 months.
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- Containers: Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
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- Thawing: To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight or leave at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds; be cautious not to overheat as it may become rubbery.
- Stovetop: Place on a low flame for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Chinese Egg Cake.
What is a Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a delightful dessert known for its fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, often enjoyed with tea or as a light snack.
How do you achieve fluffiness in Chinese Egg Cake?
Fluffiness comes from whipping eggs and sugar together until they reach the ribbon stage. This incorporates air, which gives the cake its light texture.
Can I customize my Chinese Egg Cake?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like vanilla extract or incorporate fruits such as mango or berries into the batter for variation.
How should I serve Chinese Egg Cake?
Serve these cakes warm with tea or coffee. They also pair well with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Are Chinese Egg Cakes suitable for special occasions?
Yes! Their charming appearance and delightful flavor make them perfect for celebrations like birthdays or festivals.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes are not just desserts; they embody warmth and comfort that resonate with every bite. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste, making them suitable for any occasion. Try this recipe today and indulge yourself in this delightful treat!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini cakes 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Chinese Egg Cake, a fluffy and light dessert that brings warmth to any occasion. With its airy texture and subtle sweetness, this cake is perfect for tea parties, celebrations, or as a simple snack. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal treat for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy these cakes warm or at room temperature, and let their comforting flavors transport you to the heart of traditional Chinese baking.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about ½ cup)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon)
- 5 grams oil (olive or vegetable oil, roughly ¾ teaspoon)
- Warm water as needed (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Set up a mixing bowl over a container of warm water.
- In the bowl, beat together the eggs and castor sugar at high speed for about 12–15 minutes until fluffy.
- Gradually sift in the cake flour and gently fold it into the mixture with a spatula.
- Stir in the oil until fully incorporated.
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill each cup about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake pop (45g)
- Calories: 133
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 86mg
