30+ Delicious Chinese New Year Bake Recipes for a Tasty Feast

Chinese New Year is a time of family, tradition, and celebration, and food plays a central role in welcoming the new year.

One of the most delightful ways to honor this special occasion is through the art of baking.

Whether you’re looking to make sweet or savory treats, traditional or modern recipes, there’s something magical about sharing freshly baked goods with loved ones during this festive time.

In this blog post, we’ll explore over 30 mouthwatering Chinese New Year bake recipes that are sure to make your celebration even more memorable.

From rich and flaky pastries to soft and sweet buns, these recipes bring good fortune, happiness, and prosperity to your table.

So, preheat your oven and get ready to fill your home with the delightful aromas of Chinese New Year baking!

30+ Delicious Chinese New Year Bake Recipes for a Tasty Feast

Baking for Chinese New Year is not just about making delicious treats—it’s about honoring tradition, spreading joy, and creating lasting memories with those around you.

The 30+ Chinese New Year bake recipes shared here are perfect for adding sweetness and prosperity to your celebrations.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, there’s a recipe for everyone.

So, gather your ingredients, start baking, and enjoy the delicious flavors and the warmth of the season.

May the new year bring you good luck, health, and happiness, one bite at a time!

Pineapple Bun (菠萝包)

Pineapple buns, also known as “Bolo Bao,” are a popular treat during Chinese New Year celebrations. Despite the name, there is no actual pineapple in the filling. Instead, the top is made with a sweet, crumbly sugar topping that resembles the texture of a pineapple. These soft, fluffy buns are a delightful blend of savory and sweet and are perfect for any holiday gathering or as a breakfast treat during the New Year.

Ingredients:

• For the Bun:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp milk powder
• For the Topping:
  • ¼ cup butter, softened
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp milk powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Make the Bun Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and egg, and mix to form a dough. Gradually knead in the melted butter, oil, and milk powder. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, flour, milk powder, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until a thick, smooth paste forms.
3. Shape the Buns:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Shape the topping into 8 small rounds and place each on top of the bun dough, pressing down gently to flatten the topping slightly.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Let them cool on a wire rack.

Pineapple buns are a perfect blend of sweetness and fluffiness, offering a satisfying bite with a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy interior. These buns are not just a delicious treat but also a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for the New Year. Serve them warm with tea for a delightful snack or enjoy them as part of a festive breakfast.

Red Bean Paste Mooncakes (豆沙月饼)

Mooncakes are a classic Chinese pastry that often makes an appearance during Chinese New Year. These baked mooncakes filled with red bean paste are a delicious and symbolic treat, representing unity, wealth, and harmony. The soft golden crust encases the smooth, sweet filling, making them a favorite among those celebrating the holiday. They are perfect for gifting and enjoying with family.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup golden syrup (or honey)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp alkaline water (lye water, optional)
• For the Filling:
  • 1 ½ cups cooked red bean paste (sweetened)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of paste)
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine the flour, golden syrup, oil, and alkaline water (if using). Stir until the mixture forms a dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • If using homemade red bean paste, mix the paste with sugar, if necessary. Divide the paste into 8 equal portions and shape each into a small ball.
3. Assemble the Mooncakes:
   • Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and flatten each piece into a round disc. Place a ball of red bean paste in the center of each dough disc. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it tightly and shaping it into a ball.
   • Gently press the mooncake dough into a mooncake mold to form the traditional pattern. Carefully unmold and place the mooncakes on a baking sheet.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the mooncakes with the beaten egg to give them a golden color. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Red bean paste mooncakes are a comforting and beautiful addition to any Chinese New Year celebration. The smooth, sweet red bean filling paired with the delicate, slightly crispy crust creates a delightful combination. These mooncakes symbolize completeness and are often shared among friends and family, making them a perfect treat for bringing everyone together in the spirit of the New Year.

Fortune Cookies

While often associated with Chinese cuisine in the West, fortune cookies have become a fun and delicious part of Chinese New Year celebrations. These crispy cookies, folded with a slip of a fortune inside, bring an element of surprise and joy. Making them at home allows you to add personal messages or wishes for the new year, making them a perfect way to spread good fortune and cheer.

Ingredients:

• 3 egg whites
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 tbsp water
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Make the Batter:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Add the flour, vanilla extract, almond extract, sugar, melted butter, water, and salt, and whisk until smooth.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Drop small spoonfuls of batter (about 1 tbsp) onto the baking sheet, spacing them 3 inches apart. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter into thin, round circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
   • Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Work quickly after removing the cookies from the oven, as they harden fast.
3. Fold the Cookies:
   • Once out of the oven, quickly place a fortune (a small paper strip with a wish or message) in the center of each cookie. Fold the cookie in half, then gently bend the edges to form a crescent shape. Be careful as the cookies will be hot.
4. Cool:
   • Place the folded cookies in muffin tins or a cup to hold their shape while they cool completely.

Fortune cookies are not only fun to eat but also add a touch of whimsy to any Chinese New Year gathering. The crisp texture and surprise fortune inside make them a delightful way to send good wishes to friends and family. These homemade cookies can be personalized with thoughtful messages, making them an even more special treat during the festive season.

Coconut Cream Cake (椰子奶油蛋糕)

Coconut is a popular flavor during Chinese New Year, symbolizing abundance and good fortune. This coconut cream cake is a light, fluffy dessert that pairs the richness of coconut with a tender cake texture. It’s topped with a coconut cream frosting, making it an indulgent treat that’s perfect for the festive table. With its tropical flavors, this cake brings a refreshing sweetness that is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup coconut milk (canned)
  • ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ cup coconut cream (canned)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut, toasted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
   • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Alternately add the flour mixture and coconut milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix in the shredded coconut.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Frosting:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the coconut cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled, spread the coconut cream frosting evenly over the top and sides. Garnish with toasted shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

This Coconut Cream Cake is a beautiful and decadent dessert that brings a tropical flair to Chinese New Year celebrations. The soft, coconut-infused cake paired with the rich frosting offers a luscious texture, making it a perfect treat to share with friends and family. Its sweet, creamy flavors and striking appearance will surely become a new tradition for your holiday festivities.

Sesame Balls (芝麻球)

Sesame balls, or “Jian Dui,” are a traditional Chinese pastry often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for their symbolism of wealth and prosperity. These crispy, chewy treats are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in sesame seeds, which offer both a crunchy exterior and a sweet, smooth filling. They are deep-fried to golden perfection, making them a delightful snack for any festive occasion.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp vegetable oil
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup red bean paste (sweetened)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
• For Frying:
  • Sesame seeds for coating
  • Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, water, sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
2. Form the Sesame Balls:
   • Divide the dough into small pieces, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each piece into a small disc. Place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center and carefully fold the dough around the paste, sealing it tightly to form a ball.
   • Roll each ball in sesame seeds to coat the outside.
3. Fry the Sesame Balls:
   • Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

These Sesame Balls are a deliciously crispy and chewy treat that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year. The contrast between the crunchy sesame seeds and the smooth, sweet red bean paste filling makes each bite delightful. As they are fried to golden perfection, these balls symbolize wealth and prosperity, making them a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations or to gift to loved ones for good luck.

Sweet Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕)

Sweet Osmanthus Cake, or “Guihua Gao,” is a fragrant and delicate Chinese dessert often enjoyed during festive occasions like Chinese New Year. Osmanthus flowers are prized for their sweet, floral fragrance, and this cake incorporates their essence to create a light, aromatic treat. The cake’s subtle sweetness and soft, jelly-like texture make it a refreshing choice among the heavier pastries typically associated with the holiday.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups glutinous rice flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 tbsp dried osmanthus flowers
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ tsp agar-agar powder (or gelatin as an alternative)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Osmanthus:
   • In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the dried osmanthus flowers and let them steep for 5 minutes. Strain out the flowers, keeping the infused water.
2. Make the Cake Mixture:
   • In a bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and agar-agar powder. Gradually add the osmanthus-infused water and stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Steam the Cake:
   • Grease a round cake pan with vegetable oil. Pour the cake mixture into the pan and smooth the top. Steam the cake over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the cake has set and has a firm, jelly-like texture.
4. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool completely before removing from the pan. Cut into small squares or slices and serve chilled.

Sweet Osmanthus Cake is a unique and fragrant treat that adds a touch of elegance to any Chinese New Year celebration. The soft, delicate texture combined with the floral aroma of osmanthus flowers makes this dessert a standout choice for those who enjoy lighter, more subtle treats. This cake is perfect for those looking to try something different during the festivities, offering a refreshing balance to the richer pastries often associated with the holiday.

Pineapple Bun (菠萝包)

Pineapple buns are a beloved Chinese pastry, often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for their light and sweet flavor. Despite the name, these buns do not contain pineapple; instead, they are named for the crust’s resemblance to a pineapple’s texture. The bun has a soft, fluffy interior and a crunchy, slightly sweet topping that creates a satisfying contrast. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, pineapple buns are sure to bring joy to your celebrations.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• For the Topping:
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
• For Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the egg, warm milk, and butter. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, butter, egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Divide the topping into small portions, one for each bun.
3. Shape the Buns:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly. Top each bun with a portion of the prepared topping, pressing it gently into the dough to form a crust.
4. Bake the Buns:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the buns with the beaten egg wash to give them a shiny finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the buns are golden brown and the topping is cracked.

Pineapple buns are a fun and flavorful addition to your Chinese New Year spread. The soft, fluffy interior paired with the sweet, crunchy topping is a satisfying combination that will appeal to everyone. These buns are a perfect breakfast item or a light dessert to enjoy during the holiday, making them a delicious and traditional choice for your festivities.

Red Bean Paste Puff Pastry (红豆酥皮)

Red bean paste puff pastry is a classic Chinese dessert that combines flaky, buttery puff pastry with a sweet and smooth red bean filling. This pastry is often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for its rich, comforting flavors. The crispy golden crust envelops the creamy red bean paste, making it an irresistible treat. These pastries are perfect for sharing and are sure to impress guests with their delicate texture and traditional taste.

Ingredients:

• For the Puff Pastry:
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup red bean paste (sweetened)
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar (if needed, to adjust sweetness)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • If your red bean paste is too thick, mix in 1 tbsp of powdered sugar to make it easier to work with. Divide the red bean paste into small portions, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into small balls.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into small squares (about 4×4 inches each). Place a ball of red bean paste in the center of each square.
3. Shape the Pastry:
   • Fold the corners of each pastry square toward the center to form a pocket, pinching the edges together to seal the filling inside. Be sure to leave the top open, so the pastry expands as it bakes.
4. Bake the Pastry:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the filled puff pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastries are golden and puffed up.

Red bean paste puff pastries are a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will impress everyone at your Chinese New Year celebration. The crispy, buttery pastry and sweet, creamy red bean filling create a perfect balance that is both comforting and indulgent. These pastries are a great way to add a traditional touch to your festive menu, offering a taste of Chinese culinary culture with each bite.

Almond Cookies (杏仁饼干)

Almond cookies are a traditional Chinese treat often served during Chinese New Year as they symbolize good luck and fortune. These cookies have a nutty, sweet flavor with a slightly crumbly texture, making them a favorite at holiday gatherings. With the rich taste of almonds in every bite and a simple, yet elegant appearance, almond cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make addition to your Chinese New Year festivities.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup ground almonds
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Whole almonds for decoration

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, powdered sugar, and baking powder. Add the softened butter, egg, and almond extract. Mix together until a dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon. Place a whole almond in the center of each cookie for decoration.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Almond cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that brings a sense of tradition and sweetness to any Chinese New Year celebration. Their rich almond flavor and delicate texture make them a crowd-pleasing option for guests of all ages. These cookies are a perfect way to incorporate symbolism and good fortune into your holiday table, offering a sweet and satisfying bite that complements the festivities.

Sesame Seed Balls (芝麻球)

Sesame Seed Balls, or Jian Dui (煎堆), are a popular Chinese pastry often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for their crispy, golden exterior and chewy, sweet interior. The ball-shaped treats are filled with red bean paste and coated in toasted sesame seeds, creating a delightful contrast of textures. These sesame seed balls are traditionally deep-fried, but in this baked version, they offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or crunch. Perfect for a festive treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup red bean paste (sweetened)
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, water, sugar, and vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, sticky dough. Let it rest for 15 minutes to firm up slightly.
2. Shape the Balls:
   • Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly, place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center, and pinch the dough around the filling to seal it. Roll the filled dough balls in sesame seeds, coating them thoroughly.
3. Bake the Sesame Balls:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sesame seed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden color when baked. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and slightly puffed up.

Baked sesame seed balls offer a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the deep-fried version. The sweet red bean paste inside pairs perfectly with the crispy, nutty sesame seeds, making for an irresistible treat. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing with friends and family during your Chinese New Year celebrations, bringing a taste of tradition to your festive table.

Sweet Potato Cake (地瓜蛋糕)

Sweet Potato Cake is a popular Chinese dessert that’s naturally sweet, soft, and incredibly fragrant. With a dense yet light texture, this cake uses mashed sweet potatoes as a primary ingredient, adding both flavor and nutrition. It’s often served during Chinese New Year for its symbolic meaning of wealth and prosperity, as sweet potatoes are believed to bring good fortune. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for anyone who loves traditional, comforting desserts with a modern twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Steam or boil the sweet potatoes until soft, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, mash the sweet potatoes into a smooth puree.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt, and mix until smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Sweet Potato Cake is a wonderful addition to any Chinese New Year spread, offering a soft, flavorful cake that’s both comforting and festive. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with the light, fluffy texture creates a cake that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether served as a snack or dessert, this cake brings a touch of warmth and tradition to your celebration.

Egg Tarts (蛋挞)

Egg Tarts are a beloved Chinese pastry with a silky, custard-like filling in a crisp, buttery tart shell. While egg tarts are popular all year round, they are often served during Chinese New Year for their rich flavor and auspicious symbolism of a prosperous new year. These egg tarts have a smooth custard filling with a golden, flaky crust that melts in your mouth. A perfect sweet treat for those who love delicate and eggy desserts!

Ingredients:

• For the Tart Crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tbsp ice water
• For the Egg Custard Filling:
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Tart Crust:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a food processor, pulse the flour, butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and ice water, and pulse until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a tart pan or mini tartlet pans, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
2. Prepare the Custard Filling:
   • In a bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until smooth. Add the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and whisk to combine.
3. Assemble and Bake the Tarts:
   • Pour the custard mixture into the prepared tart shells, filling them about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the custard is set and the tarts are golden brown on the edges. Allow to cool before serving.

Egg tarts are the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, offering a bite of rich custard with a flaky pastry crust. These tarts are a quintessential Chinese dessert often enjoyed during special occasions like Chinese New Year. Their buttery, silky-smooth filling makes them a delightful treat that your guests will savor, adding a touch of elegance to your festive spread.

Pineapple Buns (菠萝包)

Pineapple Buns, known as Bolo Bao (菠萝包), are a classic Cantonese pastry with a sweet, crunchy topping that resembles a pineapple’s texture, though they don’t actually contain any pineapple. The soft, fluffy bread inside is paired with a sugary, crisp topping that adds a perfect contrast of textures. These buns are a staple during Chinese New Year celebrations and symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Baked to golden perfection, these pineapple buns are sweet, soft, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup warm water
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ tsp salt
• For the Topping:
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ tsp baking powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the milk, butter, egg, flour, and salt. Mix to form a soft dough, then knead for about 8 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together flour, sugar, butter, egg, and baking powder until smooth. Divide this topping mixture into small portions that can cover each dough ball.
3. Shape the Buns:
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball. Roll out the topping mixture and place it on top of each dough ball, gently pressing it down to cover the top like a “pineapple skin.”
4. Bake the Buns:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the buns on a baking sheet and let them rise for 20 minutes. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Pineapple buns offer the perfect balance of sweet and soft with a wonderfully crisp topping. These delightful pastries are ideal for any Chinese New Year gathering and carry a meaningful symbol of prosperity. With their pillowy interior and crunchy exterior, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your festive table, giving a delicious taste of tradition and luck.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes (莲蓉月饼)

Mooncakes, traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, are also a significant treat for Chinese New Year, especially when filled with lotus seed paste. This elegant, round pastry symbolizes family reunion and unity. The rich, smooth lotus seed paste filling is encased in a tender, slightly sweet dough, and the intricate designs on the surface add to the appeal. These mooncakes are perfect for gifting to family and friends during the Chinese New Year, offering both beauty and flavor.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup golden syrup (or corn syrup)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp alkaline water (lye water)
• For the Filling:
  • 1 ½ cups lotus seed paste (available at Asian markets)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
  • 1 tbsp salted egg yolks (optional, for a traditional touch)
• For Assembly:
  • Mooncake molds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine the flour, golden syrup, vegetable oil, and alkaline water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • If using salted egg yolks, gently steam them for about 10 minutes and mash them into a paste. Combine the lotus seed paste with the mashed egg yolk and sesame oil (if using).
3. Shape the Mooncakes:
   • Divide the dough and filling into small portions, usually 1:2 ratio (dough to filling). Flatten the dough into a round disc and place a portion of the lotus seed paste filling in the center. Seal the dough around the filling and roll into a smooth ball.
4. Press the Mooncakes:
   • Dust the mooncake molds with a little flour. Place the filled dough ball into the mold and press gently to form the design. Carefully remove from the mold and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the Mooncakes:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush the tops with a thin layer of egg wash. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are a delightful treat that brings a taste of tradition and elegance to your Chinese New Year celebrations. The smooth, sweet lotus paste, combined with the buttery dough, creates a perfect balance of flavors. These mooncakes are not only delicious but are also meaningful symbols of unity, making them a wonderful gift for family and friends to mark the new year.

Almond Cookies (杏仁饼)

Chinese Almond Cookies are a popular treat during the Chinese New Year, loved for their delicate almond flavor and light, crumbly texture. These cookies are often served to wish prosperity and good fortune in the coming year. They are easy to make and add a festive, nutty touch to your celebration. With a subtle almond taste and golden finish, these cookies will be a sweet and crunchy delight on your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ cup chopped almonds (for topping)
• 1 egg white (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Make the Cookie Dough:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and almond extract, and mix well. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press each ball slightly to flatten and top with a chopped almond. Brush each cookie with a little egg white for a golden finish.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Chinese Almond Cookies are a simple yet festive treat, with a rich almond flavor and a wonderfully crumbly texture. They are a staple in many Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good fortune and happiness in the coming year. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones, making them a sweet and meaningful addition to any holiday gathering.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!