Chinese Egg Cake
Embark on a delightful journey with this recipe for Chinese Egg Cake, a treat that perfectly balances flavor and texture. These soft, airy cakes are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit various occasions—from tea time gatherings to festive celebrations. The unique whipping technique used in this recipe creates a fluffy center encased in a golden exterior, making each bite an unforgettable experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cakes without any fuss.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a special celebration, these cakes fit seamlessly into any event.
- Delightfully Fluffy Texture: The careful whipping of eggs ensures a light and airy cake that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Sweetness: The subtle sweetness makes these cakes an excellent companion to tea or coffee.
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of preparation required, you can enjoy homemade treats in no time.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to have the right tools at hand. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients effectively.
- Whisk or electric mixer: This tool helps achieve the fluffy consistency needed for the cake by incorporating air into the eggs.
- Spatula: A spatula is perfect for gently folding in the flour without deflating the batter.
- Muffin tin: Using a muffin tin allows you to create individual portions of Chinese Egg Cake easily.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 middle-size eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about 陆 c)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 5 grams oil (olive oil or other vegetable oil, roughly 戮 tsp)
- Warm water as needed (optional, for speeding up the whipping process, especially on colder days)
How to Make Chinese Egg Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your Chinese Egg Cakes bake evenly.
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 will help keep your egg mixture warm while whipping.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar
In your mixing bowl, combine the eggs and castor sugar. Beat them together at high speed until they become light and fluffy, which should take around 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know you’ve reached the ribbon stage when the mixture flows smoothly.
Step 4: Fold in Cake Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour into your egg mixture. Gently fold it using a spatula until fully incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix as this could affect the texture.
Step 5: Add Oil
Pour in the oil, stirring gently until well blended with the batter. This adds moisture and richness to your cakes.
Step 6: Prepare Muffin Tin
Line your muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are covered. This will make it easier to remove the cakes after baking.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Tin
Pour the batter into each cup of the muffin tin, filling them about two-thirds full.
Step 8: Bake
Position the muffin tin on the rack of your oven. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until their tops turn a lovely golden color.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before savoring your delicious Chinese Egg Cakes!
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 perfect for different occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Tea
- Pairing with traditional tea elevates the flavors. The cakes complement the warmth and bitterness of black or green tea perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Fruit
- Add slices of seasonal fruits like strawberries or mangoes. This combination brings freshness and contrasts beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
Drizzled with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness. It enhances the flavors while keeping the dessert light and airy.
Served Warm
- Enjoying these cakes fresh from the oven ensures a delightful experience. The warm texture is simply irresistible!
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess. This pairing creates a luxurious dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
Sprinkled with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a beautiful finish. It also enhances the visual appeal, making it perfect for special occasions.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
To achieve the best results when making Chinese Egg Cakes, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip better, creating a fluffier texture for your cake.
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Sift Flour Before Use: Sifting cake flour helps aerate it and removes lumps, ensuring a smooth batter.
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Beat Eggs Thoroughly: Properly whipping eggs until they reach the ribbon stage is crucial for achieving that airy center.
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Gradually Fold Ingredients: When combining flour, do so gently to avoid deflating the whipped egg mixture.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cakes while baking. Remove them once they turn golden brown for a perfect texture.
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Cool Before Serving: Letting the cakes cool slightly before serving allows flavors to settle and enhances their taste.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Pairing side dishes with Chinese Egg Cakes can create a well-rounded meal or snack experience. Here are some ideal accompaniments:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits adds brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the cakes.
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Green Tea Ice Cream: The creamy texture and earthy flavor complement the lightness of the egg cakes beautifully.
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Sesame Balls: These crispy treats provide a contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing your dessert experience.
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Steamed Dumplings: Light dumplings filled with vegetables or meat offer a savory contrast to sweet egg cakes.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: This floral tea pairs well, offering a fragrant note that balances out sweetness.
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Sweet Red Bean Paste: Serve alongside as a dip or spread; its rich flavor complements the lightness of the cake.
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Coconut Milk Pudding: The creaminess adds another layer of indulgence that’s delightful alongside egg cakes.
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Matcha Cookies: Their earthy flavor provides depth and pairs wonderfully with the lightness of Chinese Egg Cakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chinese Egg Cakes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the egg whipping stage: Not beating the eggs and sugar long enough can prevent the cake from becoming fluffy. Ensure you reach the ribbon stage for the best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Folding in the flour too aggressively can deflate the air you’ve incorporated. Gently fold until just combined to keep it airy.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and other ingredients can hinder proper mixing. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal results.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so don’t rely solely on time. Check for a golden top and a toothpick test to know when they’re done.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid absorbing odors.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Chinese Egg Cake, here are some commonly asked questions that might help clarify things.
What is a Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a light and fluffy dessert made primarily from eggs, sugar, and flour. Its unique texture comes from whipping air into the egg mixture.
How do I customize my Chinese Egg Cake?
You can add flavors like vanilla or almond extract, or incorporate fruits such as berries or citrus zest into your batter for added taste.
Can I make Chinese Egg Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute cake flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this delightful cake.
What occasions are perfect for serving Chinese Egg Cake?
These cakes are excellent for tea time, celebrations, or as a sweet treat during festivals like Chinese New Year.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile. Their airy texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for various occasions. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. We encourage you to try this recipe at home; it’s sure to delight everyone!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes 12 servings 1x
Description
Embark on a delightful culinary adventure with this recipe for Chinese Egg Cake, a beloved treat that combines a light, fluffy texture with subtle sweetness. Ideal for any occasion, from casual tea time to festive celebrations, these airy cakes are simple to prepare and sure to impress. With a unique whipping technique, each cake features a golden exterior that encases a soft center, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Perfectly paired with tea or coffee, this charming dessert is both comforting and versatile.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour
- 40 grams castor sugar
- 5 grams oil (vegetable or olive)
- Warm water (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Set up a warm water bath by placing a mixing bowl over a container filled halfway with hot water.
- In the mixing bowl, beat the eggs and castor sugar at high speed for 12-15 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually sift in the cake flour, gently folding it into the mixture without deflating it.
- Add the oil and mix until incorporated.
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill each cup two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
