red date cake recipe

How to Make Chinese Red Date Cake: A Simple Recipe Guide

Red date cake, a moist and mildly sweet Chinese steamed cake, is beloved for its comforting aroma and fluffy texture. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

- 150g all-purpose flour

- 100g pitted red dates, soaked in warm water until soft

- 50g sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 tsp active dry yeast

- 120ml warm milk (≈40°C)

- 1 egg

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- A pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Prepare the red date paste: Blend soaked dates into a smooth paste, removing any tough bits if needed.

2. Activate yeast: Mix yeast with warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

3. Combine batter: In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, salt, and egg. Add yeast mixture, date paste, and oil. Stir until a smooth, thick batter forms (no lumps).

4. Ferment: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Steam: Pour the batter into a greased cake tin. Steam over high heat for 25–30 minutes. Insert a toothpick to check—if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

6. Rest: Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips: For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or osmanthus. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat or dessert! This healthy, homemade cake is sure to become a favorite.