peach crisp cakes

How to Make Classic Chinese Peach Cookies (Tao Su)

Peach cookies (tao su), a beloved Chinese pastry, are prized for their crumbly texture and nutty sweetness. Here’s a simple guide to baking them at home.

Ingredients:

- 150g all-purpose flour

- 50g granulated sugar

- 50g lard (or vegetable shortening)

- 1 egg yolk

- 1/4 tsp baking soda

- 1/4 tsp salt

- Optional: Black sesame seeds for topping

Steps:

1. Prepare the dough: Sift flour, baking soda, and salt together. In a bowl, cream lard and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolk and mix well. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Knead lightly, then wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Shape the cookies: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Roll the dough into 1.5cm thick sheets. Use a cookie cutter (or a round cup) to cut into circles. Place on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

3. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely—their crunchiness develops as they set!

Tips: For extra flavor, add crushed walnuts or replace 1/3 of flour with almond flour. Store in an airtight container to preserve their crispness. Enjoy with tea for a traditional treat!

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