Chinese Egg Cake
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Chinese Egg Cake recipe. Ideal for tea time or as a sweet treat, these cakes are not just a dessert; they bring together a unique blend of textures and flavors. With their crisp golden exterior that envelops an airy center, every bite is a celebration of homemade comfort. The subtle sweetness from castor sugar elevates the experience, making it perfect for various occasions, including family gatherings and festive celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
- Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or during tea time—these cakes fit any occasion!
- Light & Fluffy Texture: Achieved through careful whipping of eggs, creating a cake that’s both airy and satisfying.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients you likely have at home, making it easy to bake anytime.
- Kid-Friendly Recipe: Simple enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family baking activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Muffin tin
- Spatula
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps mix ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Muffin tin: Perfectly shapes your Chinese Egg Cakes while allowing even baking.
- Spatula: Ensures gentle folding of flour into the batter for that fluffy texture.
- Whisk or electric mixer: Essential for achieving the light and fluffy egg mixture needed for this cake.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chinese Egg Cake:
– 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, for speeding up the whipping process)
How to Make Chinese Egg Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cakes bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixing Setup
Take a container and fill it halfway with water. Place your mixing bowl on top of the container. This method creates a warm environment that helps with whipping the eggs.
Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugar
In the mixing bowl combine eggs and caster sugar. Beat them together at high speed until they become light and fluffy. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know you’ve reached the ribbon stage when the mixture has a flowing consistency.
Step 4: Add Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour. Gently fold it into the mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Oil
Pour in the oil, stirring gently until it’s well blended with the batter. This adds moisture and richness to your cakes.
Step 6: Prepare Muffin Tin
Line a muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are covered properly.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour the batter into each cup of the muffin tin, filling them about two-thirds full for even rising.
Step 8: Bake Your Cakes
Position the muffin tin on the rack in your oven. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until you notice their tops have turned a lovely golden color.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation!
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before savoring your delicious Chinese Egg Cakes!
With this simple yet rewarding recipe, you’ll find yourself making these delightful cakes again and again!
How to Serve Chinese Egg Cake
Chinese Egg Cakes are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. These fluffy cakes not only shine on their own but also pair beautifully with different accompaniments, enhancing your tasting experience.
With Tea
- A cup of hot tea complements the subtle sweetness of the Chinese Egg Cake perfectly. Consider serving it with green or oolong tea for a traditional touch.
As a Dessert
- Serve these cakes as a light dessert after dinner. Their airy texture makes them an ideal finish to any meal without being overly heavy.
Topped with Fruits
- Fresh fruits like strawberries or mango slices add a burst of flavor and color to your serving plate. Simply arrange the fruits around the cake for an appealing presentation.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top adds richness to the cake. This pairing is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge a little more.
During Celebrations
- These cakes can be served during festive gatherings or celebrations, making them a charming centerpiece. Their unique texture will impress your guests and create lasting memories.
As a Snack
- Enjoy these Chinese Egg Cakes as an afternoon snack. They are light enough to keep you satisfied until your next meal while providing a sweet treat.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
To ensure your Chinese Egg Cake turns out perfectly fluffy and delicious, follow these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature eggs: Room temperature eggs whip better than cold ones, resulting in a fluffier cake.
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Beat eggs thoroughly: Ensure you beat the egg and sugar mixture until it reaches the ribbon stage; this step is crucial for achieving the desired texture.
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Sift flour gently: Sifting your cake flour helps incorporate air into the batter, making it lighter. Do this before adding it to the egg mixture.
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Don’t overmix: Fold in the flour gently to maintain airiness in the batter. Overmixing can result in denser cakes.
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Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly; an accurate temperature ensures even baking and prevents undercooked centers.
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Cool properly: Allow cakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Chinese Egg Cake can elevate your dining experience even further. Here are some delightful options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Green Tea Ice Cream: The creamy texture and earthy flavor complement the lightness of the cake beautifully.
- Sesame Balls: These sweet treats provide a crunchy contrast, making for an exciting combination with soft cakes.
- Steamed Dumplings: Lightly seasoned dumplings offer savory notes that enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey on top can add extra sweetness and moisture, enriching each bite.
- Chilled Coconut Milk: This refreshing drink pairs well with sweet desserts, providing a tropical flair to your meal.
- Almond Cookies: These nutty cookies can serve as delightful companions, adding variety with their crunchiness.
- Matcha Latte: The vibrant flavors of matcha create an interesting contrast while enhancing your tea time experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chinese Egg Cakes can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can prevent the mixture from whipping properly. Always use eggs at room temperature for the best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously after adding flour can make the cakes dense. Gently fold the batter to keep it airy and light.
- Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing your cakes inside.
- Ignoring the ribbon stage: Not beating the eggs and sugar long enough will affect fluffiness. Ensure you reach the ribbon stage for perfect results.
- Using the wrong pan size: A muffin tin is essential for shaping your cakes. Avoid using a different size or type that may lead to inconsistent baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chinese Egg Cakes in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
- Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a delightful dessert characterized by its airy texture and subtle sweetness. It’s made primarily from eggs, sugar, and cake flour.
How do I achieve the perfect texture?
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure you whip the eggs and sugar until they reach the ribbon stage, creating a fluffy base for your cake.
Can I customize my Chinese Egg Cake?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like vanilla or almond extract, or even fold in chocolate chips for a twist on this traditional recipe.
How do I serve Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cakes are versatile; serve them as a snack, dessert, or with tea. They pair well with fruits or sweet dips as well.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes are not just simple desserts; they offer a blend of comfort and joy in every bite. Their lightness makes them perfect for any occasion, while customization options allow you to put your personal touch on this delightful treat. Try this recipe today and enjoy a moment of homemade indulgence!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini cakes 1x
Description
Embark on a delicious culinary adventure with our easy Chinese Egg Cake recipe. This delightful treat features a crisp golden exterior and an airy center, making it the perfect addition to tea time or any festive gathering. With only a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that exudes homemade comfort and charm. The subtle sweetness from castor sugar enhances its flavor, while the light and fluffy texture makes it an ideal snack or sweet indulgence. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh fruits and whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 middle-sized 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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Fill a container halfway with warm water and place a mixing bowl on top to create a warm environment.
- In the mixing bowl, beat the eggs and castor sugar at high speed until light and fluffy (12-15 minutes) until reaching the ribbon stage.
- Gradually sift in the cake flour, gently folding it into the mixture using a spatula.
- Add oil and blend carefully.
- 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 cakes to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
