plum blossom cakes

How to Make Plum Blossom Cakes: A Simple Guide

Plum blossom cakes, or *meihua gao*, are delicate, fragrant Chinese pastries shaped like plum blossoms, symbolizing resilience and beauty. Here’s an easy recipe to make them at home.

Ingredients:

- 200g glutinous rice flour

- 30g wheat starch

- 40g granulated sugar

- 250ml water

- A pinch of salt

- Red food coloring (optional, for petals)

- Black sesame seeds (for centers)

Steps:

1. Prepare the batter: Mix glutinous rice flour, wheat starch, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, stirring until smooth. Strain to remove lumps.

2. Cook the dough: Pour the batter into a non-stick pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a translucent dough (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.

3. Shape the cakes: Let the dough cool slightly. Divide into small balls (about 20g each). Flatten each into a circle. Use a knife to cut 5 small slits around the edge, creating petals. Gently pinch the petals to lift them, forming a blossom shape.

4. Add color and centers: If using, dab a tiny bit of red food coloring on petal tips. Press a black sesame seed in the center.

5. Steam: Place cakes on a parchment-lined steamer. Steam over high heat for 8-10 minutes until set.

Serving: Enjoy warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with tea! These charming cakes are not only delicious but also a festive treat for Lunar New Year or family gatherings.