Imagine a dessert that transports you to the heart of traditional Chinese cuisine, where delicate flavors and elegant techniques create a truly extraordinary treat. This Steamed Green Pear Cake is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that combines the subtle sweetness of fresh pears with a light, cloud-like texture that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Prepare to be amazed by a dessert that breaks all the traditional cake-making rules and introduces you to the magical world of steamed cakes!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pureed green pears
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Water caltrop (for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients and have them at room temperature. Wash and peel green pears, then puree them in a food processor until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and pureed green pears until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently to create a uniform cake batter. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Grease a 9-inch round steaming pan or cake mold with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Prepare a steamer by filling the bottom pot with water and bringing it to a gentle boil. Place a steaming rack inside.
- Carefully place the cake pan onto the steaming rack, ensuring it doesn't touch the water directly.
- Cover the steamer with a lid and steam the cake on medium heat for approximately 40-50 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
- Check the cake's doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cake to a serving plate and allow it to cool completely.
- Decorate the top of the cake with carefully arranged water caltrop pieces, creating an elegant and traditional Chinese design.
- Slice the cake into 8 even portions and serve at room temperature. The cake can be enjoyed as a dessert or light afternoon treat.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the most consistent and smooth batter.
- Pear Perfection: Choose ripe, sweet green pears for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Steaming Secrets: Keep the steamer lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent heat and prevent moisture from dripping onto the cake.
- Mixing Technique: Fold ingredients gently to keep the cake light and airy—overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture.
- Water Caltrop Decoration: Arrange the water caltrop pieces just before serving to maintain their fresh, crisp appearance.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds its shape and texture.
- Serve Fresh: This cake is best enjoyed on the day it's made, preferably within a few hours of steaming.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
