Chinese Steamed Thousand Layer Cake Recipe: How to Make It at Home

If you're a fan of dim sum, you've probably heard of the Chinese steamed thousand layer cake. This classic southern Chinese dish is known for its beautiful layers, chewy texture, and light sweetness. It's a popular snack or dessert and is often served during special occasions, such as the Lunar New Year.

Making this cake may seem intimidating at first, but it's actually quite simple. The ingredient list is relatively short and the preparation techniques are straightforward. With a little bit of patience and practice, you can easily make your own Chinese steamed thousand layer cake at home.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese steamed thousand layer cake is a classic southern Chinese dish that's popular as a snack or dessert.
• Making the cake is relatively simple, with a short ingredient list and straightforward preparation techniques.
• Seafood can be added to the recipe, such as shrimp or crab, to add more flavour and texture.

Historical Background

Chinese steamed thousand layer cake, also known as "qiancenggao" (千层糕) or "lingfenchi" (菱粉糍), is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries in Southern China. This cake is particularly popular during the Lunar New Year festivities, where it is often served as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Cultural Significance

The cultural significance of the steamed thousand layer cake can be traced back to ancient times. The cake is said to have been invented during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and was originally made with rice flour. Over time, the recipe evolved and tapioca flour was introduced, giving the cake its distinctive chewy texture.

In Cantonese cuisine, the steamed thousand layer cake is a popular dim sum dish. It is also commonly found in Malaysia, where it is known as "kuih lapis" and is often served during special occasions such as weddings and festivals.

Regional Variations

There are many regional variations of the steamed thousand layer cake, each with its own unique flavour and texture. For example, the Toisan version of the cake is made with brown sugar and coconut milk, giving it a rich, fragrant taste. In some regions, seafood such as shrimp or scallops is added to the cake, giving it a savoury twist.

If you are looking to add seafood to your steamed thousand layer cake recipe, consider using fresh shrimp or minced crab meat. These ingredients can be mixed into the cake batter before steaming, adding a delicious seafood flavour to the cake.

Overall, the steamed thousand layer cake is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time. Whether you are celebrating the Lunar New Year or simply looking for a delicious and unique dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredient List

To make a delicious Chinese steamed thousand layer cake, you will need to gather the following ingredients:

Flour Selection

The flour selection is crucial to the success of your cake. You will need:

• All-purpose flour
• Cake flour
• Tapioca flour or starch
• Corn flour (optional)
• Custard powder (optional)

Sweeteners and Flavours

To add sweetness and flavour to your cake, you will need:

• Sugar (white, light brown, dark brown)
• Brown sugar slabs
• Red dates (optional)
• Vanilla (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Fats and Oils

To give your cake a moist and tender texture, you will need:

• Lard or butter
• Oil (vegetable or canola)
• Coconut milk (optional)

When selecting your ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality products for the best results. You can also experiment with different flavours and ingredients to create your own unique variation of the classic recipe.

As a suggestion, you can also add seafood to your cake for a unique twist. For example, you can add small pieces of cooked shrimp or crab meat to the cake batter before steaming. This will give your cake a delicious savoury flavour that pairs well with the sweet and tender texture of the cake.

Preparation Techniques

Batter Mixing

To prepare the batter for your Chinese steamed thousand layer cake, you will need to mix together the dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and fine granulated sugar. Then, in another bowl, mix together the water, neutral-flavoured oil, and eggs until well combined.

Make sure that your mixing bowl is clean and dry before you start. It's also important to use room temperature water to prevent the gluten from becoming tough.

Layering the Cake

Once your batter is ready, it's time to layer the cake. Pour a thin layer of batter onto the steaming rack and spread it evenly. Then, fold the layer in half and pour another layer of batter on top. Repeat this process until you have used up all of your batter.

You can also add seafood to your cake layers for a unique twist. Shrimp or crab meat are great options for this recipe. Simply chop the seafood into small pieces and add it to the batter before layering.

Steaming Process

After layering your cake, it's time to steam it. Fill your steamer with boiling water and place the steaming rack with the cake inside. Make sure that the water level is high enough so that it doesn't boil dry during the cooking process.

Cover the steamer and steam the cake over high heat for 5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to medium and steam for another 10-15 minutes.

Once the cake is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes. The cake should be stretchy and have distinct layers. Serve it warm or at room temperature for best results.

Cooking Instructions

Setting Up the Steamer

Before you start cooking, make sure that you have a steamer set up. You can use a wok or a dedicated steamer for this purpose. Fill the wok or steamer with boiling water, making sure that the water level is below the steaming rack. If you are using a wok, place a small plate or a metal ring at the bottom to elevate the cake pan and prevent it from touching the bottom of the wok.

Monitoring and Adjustments

Once the steamer is set up, place the cake pan inside and cover it with a lid. Steam the cake over high heat for about 30-45 minutes until it turns golden brown. Keep an eye on the steamer and add more boiling water if necessary to maintain the water level. You can also adjust the heat as needed to prevent the cake from burning.

Finishing Touches

Once the cake is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes. Run an oiled knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake, and then invert it onto a plate. Peel off the parchment paper and let the cake cool completely before slicing it into servings.

To achieve the perfect texture, make sure that you use the right amount of ingredients and follow the recipe instructions carefully. The cake should be soft and chewy, with a slightly sweet and savoury flavour. If you encounter any issues with the cake, such as it being too dry or not rising properly, troubleshoot the recipe and make adjustments as needed.

As a suggestion, you can add seafood to the cake recipe for a unique twist. Shrimp or crab meat can be added to the salted egg yolk paste filling to create a delicious seafood version of the cake. Make sure to cook the seafood before adding it to the filling, and adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the seafood flavour.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Chinese steamed thousand layer cake is a delicious dessert that is enjoyed by many. However, it is important to be mindful of the caloric content of this dessert. One serving of this cake contains approximately 250-300 calories.

Dietary Considerations

If you are watching your sodium intake, it is important to note that this dessert contains a moderate amount of sodium. Additionally, it is a relatively high-fat dessert due to the use of coconut milk. However, it is also a good source of protein.

When it comes to serving size, it is recommended to have a small piece of cake to keep the calorie count in check. If you are looking for a gluten-free dessert option, this cake is a great choice as it does not contain any gluten.

If you have concerns about cholesterol, it is important to note that this dessert does contain eggs. However, it is still possible to enjoy this dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

As a suggestion, you can add seafood to this recipe to give it a unique twist. For example, you can add prawns or scallops to the coconut milk mixture to create a savoury version of this dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to a super soft Chinese steamed layer cake?

The secret to a super soft Chinese steamed layer cake is using the right amount of water and tapioca flour. You want to make sure the batter is not too thick or too thin. Also, make sure to steam the cake for the right amount of time. Over-steaming can result in a hard and dry cake.

Can you share some tips for getting the layers distinct in a thousand layer cake?

To get distinct layers in a thousand layer cake, make sure to pour the batter evenly into the pan and smooth it out with a spatula. You can also tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Another tip is to use a piece of parchment paper to cover the batter before steaming. This will help to create a smooth and even surface.

How long does it take to steam a Chinese thousand layer cake?

It takes about 30-40 minutes to steam a Chinese thousand layer cake. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your steamer and the thickness of the cake. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

What are the main ingredients I need for a traditional Chinese layered rice cake?

The main ingredients you need for a traditional Chinese layered rice cake are tapioca flour, water, sugar, and coconut milk. You can also add other flavourings such as pandan leaves or sesame seeds to enhance the taste.

Is there a gluten-free version of the Chinese steamed thousand layer cake?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the Chinese steamed thousand layer cake by using gluten-free tapioca flour. Make sure to check the packaging to ensure that the flour is gluten-free.

How do you store leftover Chinese steamed layer cake to keep it fresh?

To keep leftover Chinese steamed layer cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminium foil. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

As a suggestion, you can add seafood to the recipe by using shrimp or crab meat as a filling between the layers. Simply mix the cooked seafood with some mayonnaise and spread it evenly on top of each layer before steaming. This will add a delicious flavour and texture to the cake.