Chinese Egg Cake
Embark on a delightful journey with this recipe for Chinese Egg Cake. These cakes are not only light and fluffy but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether served as an afternoon snack, a sweet treat at parties, or part of a festive celebration, the Chinese Egg Cake is sure to impress. The unique blend of textures—from the crisp exterior to the airy interior—combined with the subtle sweetness creates an irresistible experience that will leave everyone craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cakes in no time.
- Light and Fluffy Texture: The careful whipping of eggs ensures a perfect airy consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain, with fruit, or as part of a dessert platter; the choice is yours!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for tea time, birthday celebrations, or even as a delightful treat for Chinese New Year.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made from simple pantry staples, these cakes are both accessible and budget-friendly.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Chinese Egg Cakes:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Sifter
- Spatula
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in achieving the perfect fluffy texture.
- Sifter: Ensures cake flour is aerated, resulting in a lighter cake.
- Muffin tin: Perfectly shapes your cakes while promoting even baking.
Ingredients
For the Chinese Egg Cake
- 2 middle-size eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about ½ c)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 5 grams oil (olive oil or other vegetable oil, roughly ¾ tsp)
- Warm water as needed (optional, for speeding up the whipping process, especially on colder days)
How to Make Chinese Egg Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cakes bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mixing Setup
Take a container and fill it halfway with water. Place your mixing bowl on top of this container to create a warm environment. This helps in whipping the eggs effectively.
Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugar
In the mixing bowl, combine eggs and caster sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer at medium speed until they become light and fluffy. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture reaches the ribbon stage—a flowing consistency.
Step 4: Incorporate Cake Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour. Using a spatula, gently fold it into the mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped eggs; this step is crucial for maintaining fluffiness.
Step 5: Add Oil
Pour in the oil, then stir until it is well blended with your batter. This adds moisture while keeping your cakes light.
Step 6: Prepare Muffin Tin
Line a muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are covered. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour in your batter carefully to fill each cup of the muffin tin evenly. Avoid overfilling to allow room for rising.
Step 8: Bake Your Cakes
Position the muffin tin on the rack of your oven. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until their tops turn a lovely golden color. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
Step 9: Enjoy Your Chinese Egg Cakes!
Once baked, let them cool slightly before savoring these delightful treats! Enjoy with tea or share with friends—these cakes are sure to be a hit!
How to Serve Chinese Egg Cake
Chinese Egg Cakes are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you prefer them sweet or with a savory twist, there are many delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Bananas: Top with banana slices for added natural sweetness and creaminess.
As a Light Dessert
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the cake’s fluffiness.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for those who crave a sweet indulgence.
During Tea Time
- Tea Pairing: Enjoy these cakes with a cup of your favorite tea, such as green tea or jasmine, to balance the sweetness.
- Mini Sandwiches: Serve with small cucumber or egg salad sandwiches for a delightful afternoon treat.
For Celebrations
- Festive Toppings: Decorate with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
- Fruit Compote: Pair with a fruit compote to bring an elegant touch to your dessert table.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
To achieve the perfect Chinese Egg Cake, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your cakes turn out flawless every time.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps in achieving better volume and fluffiness when whipping.
- Beat Until Ribbon Stage: Ensure the mixture is light and fluffy; this is crucial for the cake’s airy texture.
- Fold Gently: When incorporating flour, be gentle to maintain the air bubbles in the batter.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cakes; they should be golden on top but still soft inside when done.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the cakes cool slightly before enjoying to allow flavors to develop fully.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Chinese Egg Cake can elevate your meal. Consider these options that complement its light and fluffy nature.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that balances sweetness.
- Cucumber Sandwiches: Thinly sliced cucumbers on soft bread provide a crisp contrast to the cake’s softness.
- Matcha Green Tea Cookies: These slightly bitter cookies pair wonderfully with the sweetness of egg cakes.
- Savory Spring Rolls: Light vegetable spring rolls bring a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet flavors.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt and granola create a delicious contrast in texture and taste.
- Chilled Almond Soup: This refreshing soup can serve as an intriguing side dish during warmer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chinese Egg Cakes can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Overwhipping the Eggs: If you whip the eggs too long, they may dry out. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency without overdoing it.
- Skipping the Sifting Step: Not sifting the cake flour can result in lumps in your batter. Always sift your flour to achieve a smooth texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise and texture of your cakes. Make sure your oven is preheated properly before baking.
- Filling Muffin Tins Too Full: Overfilling the muffin tins can cause the batter to overflow. Fill each cup no more than two-thirds full for best results.
- Not Checking for Doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked cakes. Always check for a golden top and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chinese Egg Cakes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
- Wrap individual cakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cakes on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each cake on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry them out.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Chinese Egg Cakes, here are some common questions and answers.
What is Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a soft and fluffy cake made primarily from eggs, sugar, and cake flour. It has a light texture that melts in your mouth.
How do I ensure my Chinese Egg Cake rises well?
To ensure proper rising, whip eggs and sugar until they reach the ribbon stage. This incorporates air into the mixture, helping it rise while baking.
Can I customize my Chinese Egg Cake recipe?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like vanilla extract or cocoa powder for variety. Fruits like bananas or nuts can also be mixed into the batter.
How do I know when my Chinese Egg Cake is done?
Your cake is done when its top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their lightness makes them perfect for any occasion, whether as a sweet snack or dessert. Feel free to experiment with flavors or add toppings of your choice to enhance your experience!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the light and fluffy delight of Chinese Egg Cake, an exquisite treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe combines just a few pantry staples—eggs, cake flour, and sugar—to create a delicately sweet cake that melts in your mouth. With its crisp exterior and airy texture, it’s ideal for afternoon tea, festive celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. Whether topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or enjoyed on its own, Chinese Egg Cake is versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes. Easy to make and utterly delicious, this cake will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 middle-size eggs (room temperature)
- 60 grams cake flour (about ½ cup)
- 40 grams castor sugar (approximately 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon)
- 5 grams oil (olive oil or other vegetable oil)
- Warm water as needed (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a mixing bowl set over warm water, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 12-15 minutes.
- Sift in the cake flour gradually and gently fold it into the mixture.
- Add the oil and stir until well combined.
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill each cup evenly with batter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Allow cooling slightly before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
