wife cakes

How to Make Wife Cakes: A Simple Guide

Wife cakes (老婆饼), a classic Chinese pastry, are beloved for their flaky crust and sweet lotus seed filling. Making them at home is easier than you think! Here’s a basic guide to get you started.

For the crust: Mix 200g of flour with 80g of lard and 60ml of warm water. Knead into a smooth dough, rest for 30 minutes. Divide into 12 small balls.

For the filling: Soak 150g dried lotus seeds until soft, then cook with 100g sugar and 2 tbsp oil until thick. Mash and mix with 50g candied winter melon, chopped, and a pinch of salt. Cool completely.

Assembly: Flatten each dough ball into a thin circle, wrap 1 tbsp filling, and seal edges. Brush with egg wash and bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes until golden.

Tips: For extra flakiness, use “water crust” (flour + boiling water) for the outer layer. Adjust sugar to taste, and add orange peel or sesame for depth.

Enjoy these warm, fragrant pastries with tea—they’re a delightful homemade treat!