Chinese Egg Cake
Embark on a delightful journey with this recipe for Chinese Egg Cake. Perfect for any occasion, these cakes are not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. Their unique texture, featuring a crisp golden exterior and a fluffy center, makes them an ideal treat for tea time or as a sweet snack. The subtle sweetness from castor sugar enhances the overall experience, making each bite unforgettable. These Chinese Egg Cakes will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations.
- Light and Fluffy Texture: The careful whipping of eggs creates an airy delight that melts in your mouth.
- Subtle Sweetness: Castor sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.
- Perfect for Kids: These cakes are not only fun to make but also enjoyable for kids of all ages.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Chinese Egg Cakes, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for a seamless cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Muffin tin
- Spatula
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
- Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and gives your cakes their delightful shape.
- Spatula: Helps gently fold the ingredients while maintaining the airiness needed in the batter.
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 it reaches the right temperature before baking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Mixing Station
Take a container and fill it halfway with water. Place your mixing bowl on top of this container. This setup provides gentle warmth for whipping the eggs.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar Together
In the mixing bowl, combine eggs and castor sugar. Beat them together at medium speed until light and fluffy. This process should take about 12 to 15 minutes. The mixture is ready when it reaches a flowing consistency known as the ribbon stage.
Step 4: Incorporate Cake Flour
Gradually sift in the cake flour. Use a spatula to gently fold it into the egg mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 5: Add Oil
Pour in the oil and stir until it’s well blended with the batter. This will add moisture and richness to your cakes.
Step 6: Prepare Muffin Tin
Line a muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring all 12 cups are covered adequately.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups
Pour the batter into each cup of the muffin tin, filling them about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
Step 8: Bake Your Cakes
Position the muffin tin on the oven rack. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes or until their tops turn golden brown and spring back when touched lightly.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Once baked, remove your Chinese Egg Cakes from the oven and savor them warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Chinese Egg Cake
Serving Chinese Egg Cake is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them at a cozy tea time or celebrating a special event, these cakes can be paired with a variety of accompaniments.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Citrus Slices: Orange or grapefruit slices add a zesty touch that balances the sweetness.
With Cream
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Sweetened Mascarpone: This creamy topping introduces a rich flavor that complements the egg cake beautifully.
With Tea
- Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea provide a perfect pairing for the subtly sweet cake.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai enhance the flavor profile, making for a comforting combination.
As Dessert Toppers
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream transforms your Chinese Egg Cake into an indulgent dessert.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cake adds richness and decadence.
How to Perfect Chinese Egg Cake
Perfecting your Chinese Egg Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful techniques. These tips will help you achieve the best results every time.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip better and create more volume in your batter.
- Sift Flour Carefully: Sifting flour before adding it helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth batter.
- Beat Eggs Properly: Whip the eggs until they reach the ribbon stage for maximum fluffiness; this usually takes around 12-15 minutes.
- Fold Gently: When incorporating flour, fold gently to maintain airiness in the batter.
- Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial; use an oven thermometer if possible to ensure even baking.
- Cool Completely Before Serving: Allow the cakes to cool fully on a wire rack to maintain their texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Egg Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Chinese Egg Cake can elevate your meal experience. Here’s a list of delightful options that complement this treat perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, making it a vibrant side option.
- Matcha Green Tea: This traditional beverage offers an earthy flavor that balances sweetness beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits creates a delicious contrast in textures and flavors.
- Sesame Cookies: Crunchy sesame cookies provide a nutty companion that pairs well with soft egg cakes.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cake.
- Steamed Dumplings: Savory dumplings add an interesting contrast, making for an exciting meal presentation.
- Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and savory notes alongside your sweet cakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chinese Egg Cakes can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense cakes. Gently fold the flour in to keep the texture light and airy.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
- Using Cold Eggs: Cold eggs don’t whip as well as room temperature ones. Let your eggs sit out for a while for better volume.
- Incorrect Measurements: Baking is precise; always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
- Ignoring the Ribbon Stage: If you don’t reach this stage while whipping, your cakes may not rise properly. Look for a flowing consistency before adding flour.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Chinese Egg Cakes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them.
Freezing Chinese Egg Cake
- Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Chinese Egg Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm the cakes for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.
- Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chinese Egg Cakes.
What is a Chinese Egg Cake?
Chinese Egg Cake is a fluffy sponge cake made primarily from eggs, sugar, and flour, known for its light texture and subtle sweetness.
How can I customize my Chinese Egg Cake?
You can add flavors like vanilla, matcha, or even chocolate to personalize your cake. Fruits can also be incorporated for added freshness.
Can I make these cakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for snacks or gatherings later on.
What serves best with Chinese Egg Cake?
These cakes pair beautifully with tea or coffee and can be served as an afternoon snack or dessert at meals.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Egg Cakes offer an exquisite balance of flavor and texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options, so feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings that suit your taste. Dive into this delightful recipe and enjoy the warmth of homemade baking!
Chinese Egg Cake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Embark on a delightful culinary adventure with our Chinese Egg Cake, a light and fluffy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This charming mini sponge cake boasts a crisp golden exterior and an airy, fluffy center that melts in your mouth. Enhanced with the subtle sweetness of castor sugar, each bite is a nostalgic journey into comfort food bliss. Ideal for tea time or as a sweet snack, these cakes are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, making them a must-try for bakers of all skill levels.
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 (¾ teaspoon olive or vegetable oil)
- Warm water (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Set up a mixing station using a bowl placed over warm water.
- Beat eggs and castor sugar together until light and fluffy, about 12-15 minutes.
- Sift in the cake flour and gently fold until combined.
- Add oil and mix well.
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners, filling each cup three-quarters full.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 128
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 32mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
