hawthorn cake recipe

How to Make Hawthorn Cake: A Simple Guide

Hawthorn cake, a beloved Chinese dessert, delights with its sweet-tart flavor and soft, jelly-like texture. Here’s a basic recipe to make it at home.

Ingredients:

500g fresh hawthorn (or 300g dried), 200g sugar, 10g gelatin (or agar powder), 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for brightness).

Steps:

1. Prepare Hawthorn: Wash fresh hawthorn, remove cores and seeds. For dried, soak until soft, then pit. Chop roughly.

2. Cook the Fruit: In a pot, add hawthorn and 100ml water. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes, mashing occasionally until pulpy.

3. Strain: Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove seeds and skins, leaving a smooth puree.

4. Sweeten and Set: Return puree to low heat. Stir in sugar until dissolved. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in 3 tablespoons warm water, then mix into the puree. Add lemon juice if using.

5. Set: Pour the mixture into a mold. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.

Tips: For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a spoonful of honey. Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit.

Enjoy this homemade treat that balances tangy and sweet notes perfectly!