Chinese Egg Cake
Embark on an adventure with this recipe for Chinese Egg Cakes, which skillfully blends tradition and simplicity. These delightful cakes are perfect for various occasions, from tea time to special family gatherings. The standout qualities of Chinese Egg Cakes include their airy texture and subtle sweetness, making them more than just a dessert but rather an experience to savor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Light and Fluffy Texture: The careful whipping of eggs creates an incredibly airy cake that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cakes as a dessert, snack, or during tea time; they fit any occasion perfectly.
- Subtle Sweetness: Made with castor sugar, these cakes offer just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in only 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch whenever you crave something sweet.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious world of Chinese Egg Cakes, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Sifter
- Spatula
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and allows for easy mixing.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the light and fluffy texture needed for the cakes by aerating the eggs efficiently.
- Sifter: Ensures that the cake flour is lump-free, contributing to a smoother batter.
- Spatula: Perfect for gently folding in ingredients without deflating the mixture.
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 step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust on your Chinese Egg Cakes.
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 while whipping the eggs.
Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugar
In the mixing bowl, combine eggs and castor sugar. Beat them together at medium speed until they become light and fluffy. This process should take around 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know you’ve reached the ribbon stage when the mixture flows smoothly from your whisk.
Step 4: Sift in Cake Flour
Gradually sift cake flour into the whipped egg mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold it in until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 5: Add Oil
Pour in oil, stirring until it’s well blended into the batter. This addition contributes moisture and richness to your cakes.
Step 6: Prepare Muffin Tin
Line a muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are covered. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour in the batter, filling each cup of the muffin tin about two-thirds full. This will allow room for rising during baking.
Step 8: Bake Your Cakes
Position the muffin tin on the rack of your oven. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until you notice that their tops have turned a lovely golden color.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation!
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before savoring your delicious Chinese Egg Cakes!
How to Serve Chinese Egg Cake
Chinese Egg Cakes are delightful on their own but can also be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for natural sweetness and creaminess.
With Whipped Cream
- Classic Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and pairs well with the light texture.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or almond-flavored whipped cream for an extra twist.
As a Tea Time Treat
- Tea Pairing: Enjoy these cakes with a hot cup of green tea or jasmine tea for a traditional touch.
- Serve on Elegant Platters: Arrange them beautifully on fine china to impress guests during afternoon tea.
With Chocolate Sauce
- Drizzled Delight: A light drizzle of warm chocolate sauce brings indulgence to the cakes.
- Chocolate Dipping: Serve with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping; it’s fun and delicious!
With Ice Cream
- Ala Mode: Top with a scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperatures.
- Sundae Style: Create a mini sundae with your favorite toppings like nuts and sprinkles.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
Perfecting your Chinese Egg Cake takes practice, but these tips will guide you toward achieving the best results.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature whip better, resulting in a fluffier cake.
- Beat Eggs Properly: Ensure you beat the eggs until they reach the ribbon stage for optimal texture.
- Sift Flour Carefully: Sifting removes lumps and incorporates air, making the cake lighter.
- Fold Gently: When combining flour and egg mixture, use a gentle folding technique to maintain airiness.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Pairing your Chinese Egg Cakes with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some complementary options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
- Green Tea Ice Cream: The unique flavor of green tea ice cream balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
- Almond Cookies: These crunchy treats provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
- Steamed Dumplings: Light dumplings can serve as a savory counterpart to balance out the meal.
- Jasmine Rice Pudding: The creamy rice pudding complements the lightness of the cakes perfectly.
- Sesame Balls: These sweet, chewy delights add an interesting texture alongside your Chinese Egg Cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chinese Egg Cakes, small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can affect the fluffiness. Always use eggs at room temperature for better volume.
- Rushing the whipping process: Beating the mixture too quickly or not long enough can result in a dense cake. Take your time to reach the ribbon stage for best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Folding in the flour too vigorously will deflate the air you’ve whipped in. Gently fold until just combined to maintain lightness.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven fully before baking for consistent results.
- Ignoring baking time: Checking the cakes too early can disrupt their rise. Keep an eye on them and allow the full baking time for perfect golden tops.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chinese Egg Cakes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
- Wrap individual cakes tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing quality.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cakes for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a light and fluffy dessert made primarily from eggs and sugar, often enjoyed during tea time or special occasions.
Can I customize my Chinese Egg Cake?
Yes! You can add flavors like vanilla or citrus zest, or even incorporate fillings such as fruit or chocolate chips!
How do I know when my Chinese Egg Cake is done?
Check for a golden top and gently press down; it should spring back. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
How long do Chinese Egg Cakes last?
When stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 1 month in the freezer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baked goods.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile. Their light texture makes them perfect for any occasion, whether served as a dessert or snack. Feel free to experiment with flavors and fillings to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini cakes 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Chinese Egg Cake, a light and airy dessert that perfectly balances tradition and modern taste. This recipe is not just easy to make but also versatile, ideal for serving at tea time, family gatherings, or any special occasion. With its fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, each bite is a heavenly experience that will leave you craving more. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these charming mini cakes that are sure to impress both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about ½ cup)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 5 grams oil (olive or vegetable oil, roughly ¾ tsp)
- Warm water as needed (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Fill a container halfway with water and place your mixing bowl on top.
- In the mixing bowl, beat the eggs and castor sugar at medium speed until light and fluffy for about 12-15 minutes.
- Gradually sift in the cake flour, gently folding it into the egg mixture until fully combined.
- Add oil and mix until well blended.
- 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 on top.
- Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, then enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 107
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
