25+ Irresistible Chinese New Year Baking Recipes for Every Tast

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a time of joy, celebration, and culinary delights.

As families gather to welcome the Lunar New Year, one of the highlights is the array of traditional and modern delicacies that grace the festive table.

Among these, baked goods hold a special place, combining time-honored recipes with the warmth of family traditions.

From sweet treats that symbolize prosperity and good fortune to savory delights that bring comfort and joy, Chinese New Year baking recipes are a wonderful way to celebrate the season.

In this blog article, we present over 25 Chinese New Year baking recipes that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also add a touch of festivity to your celebrations.

25+ Irresistible Chinese New Year Baking Recipes for Every Taste

Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate heritage, family, and the promise of a prosperous year ahead.

By incorporating these 25+ Chinese New Year baking recipes into your festivities, you can create memorable experiences and delicious moments with your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking to try your hand at traditional favorites or explore new baking creations, these recipes offer a delightful way to honor the spirit of the holiday.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and let the baking begin.

May your New Year be filled with joy, good fortune, and delectable treats!

Almond Cookies

Almond cookies are a staple during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. These delightful cookies are crumbly, buttery, and have a subtle almond flavor that pairs perfectly with tea. Their golden color adds to the festive atmosphere, making them a must-have treat for welcoming the new year.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds for garnish
• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and almond extract, beating until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and almond flour.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand, then press a sliced almond into the center of each cookie.
8. Brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash for a shiny finish.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Chinese New Year Almond Cookies are not only delicious but also bring a touch of tradition and symbolism to your celebrations. Their delightful crunch and almond flavor make them a favorite among both adults and children. Enjoy these cookies with your family and friends, sharing the joy and good fortune they represent.

Pineapple Tarts

Pineapple tarts are a beloved Chinese New Year treat, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. These bite-sized pastries feature a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam. The golden color of the tarts reflects the festive spirit, making them an essential part of the celebration.

Ingredients:

• For the Pineapple Jam:
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely grated
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• For the Pastry:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pineapple Jam:
   1. In a saucepan, combine the grated pineapple, sugar, and cinnamon stick (if using).
   2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown. This should take about 30-45 minutes.
   3. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the jam cool completely.
2. Make the Pastry:
   1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
   2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Add the powdered sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together.
   4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   2. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
   3. Cut out small rounds using a cookie cutter and place a teaspoon of pineapple jam in the center of each round.
   4. Fold the edges of the dough over the jam to form a small tart.
   5. Brush the tops of the tarts with the egg wash for a shiny finish.
   6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   7. Allow the tarts to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chinese New Year Pineapple Tarts are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors encased in a buttery, flaky crust. These tarts are not only delicious but also symbolize the abundance and prosperity you wish to bring into your home for the new year. Share these treats with loved ones to spread joy and good fortune.

Sesame Seed Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame Seed Balls, also known as Jian Dui, are a popular Chinese New Year treat. These chewy, crispy balls are made from glutinous rice flour and filled with a sweet red bean paste. The sesame seeds on the outside add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making these treats a favorite during the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup white sesame seeds
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add the water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small, equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball and place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center.
5. Carefully wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely and rolling it back into a ball.
6. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure the seeds stick.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the sesame balls in batches until they are golden brown and float to the surface, about 4-5 minutes.
9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

Sesame Seed Balls (Jian Dui) are a delightful and traditional treat for Chinese New Year. Their crispy exterior, chewy interior, and sweet red bean filling make them irresistible. These sesame balls symbolize prosperity and unity, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season. Enjoy these delicious treats as you celebrate the joy and togetherness of the new year.

Egg Tarts

Chinese Egg Tarts, with their smooth, creamy custard filling and flaky pastry crust, are a beloved dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year celebrations. These tarts are a delightful combination of Western and Chinese culinary traditions, making them a perfect treat to share during the festive season. Their golden hue and rich flavor symbolize wealth and good fortune.

Ingredients:

• For the Pastry:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2-3 tablespoons cold water
• For the Custard Filling:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Pastry:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
   2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
   4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
   1. Dissolve the granulated sugar in the hot water and let it cool to room temperature.
   2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.
   3. Gradually add the sugar water to the egg mixture, whisking until well combined.
   4. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to ensure a smooth custard.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
   3. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter and fit them into a muffin tin to form tart shells.
   4. Pour the custard filling into each tart shell, filling them almost to the top.
   5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden brown.
   6. Allow the tarts to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chinese New Year Egg Tarts are a delightful blend of creamy custard and flaky pastry, making them an irresistible treat for the festive season. These tarts are not only delicious but also symbolize prosperity and happiness. Enjoy them with family and friends, sharing the joy and warmth of the new year.

Nian Gao (Sticky Rice Cake)

Nian Gao, or Sticky Rice Cake, is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert that symbolizes progress, growth, and the promise of a better year. Made from glutinous rice flour and sweetened with brown sugar, this chewy and sweet cake is often enjoyed steamed or pan-fried. Its sticky texture and golden color make it a festive favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red dates or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
• Banana leaves or parchment paper for lining

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the water and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, cooled sugar water, coconut milk (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Line a round cake pan with banana leaves or parchment paper.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Garnish with red dates or dried fruits, if desired.
6. Steam the cake over medium heat for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the Nian Gao cool completely before slicing.

Nian Gao, or Sticky Rice Cake, is a symbolic and delicious treat for Chinese New Year. Its sweet, chewy texture and rich flavor make it a delightful addition to your festive celebrations. Sharing this cake with loved ones brings good luck and prosperity for the year ahead, making it a cherished tradition during the Lunar New Year.

Peanut Brittle

Peanut Brittle, known for its crunchy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, is a popular treat during Chinese New Year. This candy symbolizes prosperity and is often shared with family and friends to bring good fortune. Homemade peanut brittle is easy to make and adds a delightful crunch to your festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup unsalted peanuts
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the peanuts and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the butter, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. The mixture will foam up.
5. Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly.
6. Let the peanut brittle cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Chinese New Year Peanut Brittle is a delightful treat that adds a satisfying crunch to your festive celebrations. This homemade candy is not only delicious but also symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. Share this sweet and nutty brittle with family and friends to bring joy and luck in the new year.

Pineapple Tarts

Pineapple tarts are a popular treat during Chinese New Year, symbolizing prosperity and good luck. These bite-sized pastries are filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam, encased in a buttery, crumbly crust. They are a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a festive favorite.

Ingredients:

• For the Pineapple Filling:
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
• For the Pastry:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:

1. Make the Pineapple Filling:
   1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped pineapple, granulated sugar, and cinnamon stick.
   2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 30-40 minutes).
   3. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the filling cool completely.
2. Make the Pastry:
   1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and powdered sugar.
   2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together.
   4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
   3. Flatten each ball and place a small amount of pineapple filling in the center.
   4. Fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a tart.
   5. Place the tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   6. Brush the tops with the egg wash.
   7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tarts are golden brown.
   8. Let the tarts cool completely on a wire rack.

Pineapple Tarts are a delectable addition to Chinese New Year celebrations. Their sweet and tangy filling, combined with a buttery crust, makes them irresistible. These tarts not only taste amazing but also bring good luck and prosperity, making them a perfect treat to share with family and friends.

Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame Balls, or Jian Dui, are a classic Chinese dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These deep-fried, golden-brown balls are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated with sesame seeds, symbolizing happiness and wealth. Their crispy exterior and chewy interior make them a delightful treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• Oil for deep-frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add water to the flour mixture, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball and place a small amount of red bean paste in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a ball.
6. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure the seeds stick.
7. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the sesame balls in batches until they are golden brown and puffed up (about 4-5 minutes).
9. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
10. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Sesame Balls are a delightful and symbolic treat for Chinese New Year. Their crispy sesame-coated exterior and sweet, chewy interior make them a favorite among many. These delicious treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones, bringing happiness and prosperity to your festive celebrations.

Almond Cookies

Almond Cookies are a traditional Chinese New Year treat, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. These buttery, crumbly cookies are flavored with almond extract and topped with a whole almond, making them a delightful and fragrant addition to any festive spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• Whole almonds for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and almond extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. If using, fold in the sliced almonds.
7. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Flatten each ball slightly and press a whole almond into the center.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chinese New Year Almond Cookies are a perfect blend of buttery goodness and almond flavor. These cookies are not only delicious but also bring good fortune to those who enjoy them. Serve these fragrant cookies during your celebrations to share the joy and prosperity of the new year with family and friends.

Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Turnip Cake, or Lo Bak Go, is a savory dish commonly enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Made from grated daikon radish and rice flour, this cake is flavored with dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, and shiitake mushrooms. It’s steamed to perfection, then pan-fried until crispy, making it a delicious and symbolic dish representing prosperity and good fortune.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds daikon radish, peeled and grated
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
• 2 Chinese sausages, diced
• 4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, shiitake mushrooms, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the grated daikon radish to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the water, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Cook until the radish is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the rice flour and cornstarch. Gradually add the radish mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour the mixture into the pan, smoothing the top.
6. Steam the cake over medium heat for 60 minutes, or until set.
7. Let the cake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
8. To serve, slice the cake into pieces and pan-fry in a bit of oil until both sides are golden and crispy.

Turnip Cake is a savory and satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year. Its rich flavors and crispy texture make it a favorite at festive gatherings. Enjoying Turnip Cake during the celebrations brings a sense of prosperity and good luck for the coming year.

Red Bean Mochi

Red Bean Mochi is a delightful and chewy dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet red bean paste, these soft and sticky treats symbolize good luck and happiness. Their vibrant appearance and sweet filling make them a festive favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste
• Potato starch or cornstarch for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Stir until smooth.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a small vent, and microwave on high for 2 minutes.
3. Stir the mixture, then microwave for another 1-2 minutes, until the mochi dough is translucent and cooked through.
4. Dust a clean surface with potato starch or cornstarch. Transfer the mochi dough onto the surface and let it cool slightly.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small circle.
6. Place a small amount of red bean paste in the center of each circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal, and shape into a ball.
7. Roll each ball in potato starch or cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Red Bean Mochi is a chewy and sweet treat that adds a touch of joy to Chinese New Year celebrations. These delightful balls of goodness are not only tasty but also symbolize happiness and good fortune. Share them with family and friends to spread cheer and prosperity during the festive season.

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert that symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Made with glutinous rice, sweet red bean paste, and a variety of dried fruits and nuts, this dish is both visually stunning and delicious. The “eight treasures” represent different auspicious meanings, making it a perfect dessert for the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste
• 1/4 cup dried dates
• 1/4 cup dried apricots
• 1/4 cup dried lotus seeds
• 1/4 cup dried goji berries
• 1/4 cup candied cherries
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours, then drain.
2. Steam the rice over medium heat for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the steamed rice, sugar, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well.
4. Grease a large bowl or mold with vegetable oil. Arrange the dried dates, apricots, lotus seeds, goji berries, candied cherries, and pine nuts in a decorative pattern at the bottom.
5. Spread half of the rice mixture over the dried fruit and nut layer, pressing down firmly.
6. Spread the red bean paste over the rice layer.
7. Top with the remaining rice mixture, pressing down firmly.
8. Steam the pudding over medium heat for another 30 minutes.
9. Let the pudding cool slightly before inverting it onto a serving plate.

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is a beautiful and symbolic dessert that brings a sense of wealth and prosperity to Chinese New Year celebrations. Its combination of glutinous rice, sweet red bean paste, and a variety of dried fruits and nuts creates a rich and delightful treat. Enjoy this festive pudding with loved ones to share good fortune and happiness in the new year.

Steamed Red Date Cake

Steamed Red Date Cake is a traditional dessert often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with red dates (jujubes) and glutinous rice flour, this cake has a soft, chewy texture and a subtle sweetness. Red dates are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, making this cake a perfect treat for the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red dates (jujubes), pitted and chopped
• 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup rice flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped red dates, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix well and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the glutinous rice flour, rice flour, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add water and vegetable oil to the flour mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
4. Fold the red date mixture into the batter, ensuring the dates are evenly distributed.
5. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top.
6. Steam the cake over medium heat for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Steamed Red Date Cake is a delightful and symbolic dessert that brings good fortune to Chinese New Year celebrations. Its chewy texture and sweet date flavor make it a unique and delicious treat. Share this cake with family and friends to spread joy and prosperity during the festive season.

Egg Custard Tarts

Egg Custard Tarts are a beloved Chinese pastry, often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These tarts feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with a smooth and creamy egg custard. They are a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making them a perfect treat to celebrate the new year.

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
• For the Custard:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Crust:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
   2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
   4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Custard:
   1. In a saucepan, dissolve the granulated sugar in water over medium heat. Let it cool to room temperature.
   2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.
   3. Gradually add the sugar water to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any bubbles.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into rounds to fit your tart molds.
   3. Press the dough into the molds and trim any excess.
   4. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared tart shells.
   5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the crust is golden brown.
   6. Allow the tarts to cool before removing them from the molds.

Egg Custard Tarts are a delicious and elegant addition to Chinese New Year celebrations. Their rich, creamy custard and buttery crust make them a favorite treat among many. Enjoy these tarts with loved ones to add a touch of sweetness and prosperity to your festive gatherings.

Sweet Rice Balls (Tang Yuan)

Sweet Rice Balls, or Tang Yuan, are a traditional Chinese dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These chewy glutinous rice balls are filled with sweet black sesame paste and served in a warm, sweet syrup. They symbolize family unity and togetherness, making them a meaningful and delicious treat for the festivities.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup black sesame seeds, toasted and ground
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Syrup:
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup rock sugar (or granulated sugar)
  • 2 slices fresh ginger

Instructions:

1. Make the Filling:
   1. In a bowl, combine the ground black sesame seeds, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until a smooth paste forms.
   2. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Make the Dough:
   1. In a large bowl, gradually add water to the glutinous rice flour, kneading until a smooth and pliable dough forms. Adjust the water as needed.
   2. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
   3. Flatten each ball and place a small amount of the sesame filling in the center.
   4. Fold the dough over the filling and roll it back into a ball, sealing the filling inside.
3. Make the Syrup:
   1. In a large pot, bring the water, rock sugar, and ginger slices to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sugar dissolves.
4. Cook the Rice Balls:
   1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the filled rice balls and cook until they float to the surface, about 5-7 minutes.
   2. Transfer the cooked rice balls to the syrup and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the sweet rice balls in the syrup, warm.

Sweet Rice Balls are a comforting and symbolic dessert that adds a sense of togetherness to Chinese New Year celebrations. Their chewy texture and sweet, nutty filling make them a delightful treat. Share this dessert with family and friends to celebrate unity and happiness during the festive season.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!