brown sugar pot helmets

How to Make Brown Sugar Sesame Flatbread (Hong Tang Guo Kui)

Brown sugar sesame flatbread, a beloved Chinese snack, delights with its crispy crust, soft interior, and sweet caramelized filling. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: For the dough, you’ll need 300g all-purpose flour, 150ml warm water, 5g yeast, and 10g sugar. For the filling, mix 50g brown sugar, 20g flour (to prevent leakage), and a pinch of salt. Optional: 1 tbsp black sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Steps:

1. Prepare the dough: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Gradually add flour and knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.

2. Make the filling: Blend brown sugar, flour, and salt. Add 1 tbsp melted butter for a richer texture.

3. Shape the flatbread: Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a circle, place 1 tbsp filling in the center, and seal the edges tightly. Flatten gently into a thick disc.

4. Cook: Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. Cook the flatbread for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. For a crispier finish, brush with a little oil or finish in an oven at 180°C for 5 minutes.

Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch! Adjust sugar to taste, and experiment with fillings like walnut or osmanthus for variety.