30+ Sweet Chinese New Year Dessert Recipes to Enjoy with Loved Ones

Chinese New Year is a time of family reunions, festive celebrations, and of course, delicious food. Among the many dishes that grace the table, desserts hold a special place in the festivities.

These sweet treats not only symbolize happiness, wealth, and good fortune but also showcase the rich variety of Chinese culinary traditions.

From the chewy texture of sesame balls to the delicate sweetness of egg tarts, Chinese New Year desserts are a delightful way to mark the occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes will allow you to celebrate the holiday in the sweetest way possible.

Here are 30+ Chinese New Year dessert recipes that you can try to bring joy and prosperity to your table this year.

30+ Sweet Chinese New Year Dessert Recipes to Enjoy with Loved Ones

Celebrating Chinese New Year with food is one of the most enjoyable traditions of the holiday, and desserts play an essential role in bringing sweetness, good luck, and fortune to the table.

From traditional favorites like sesame balls and lotus seed mooncakes to refreshing treats like osmanthus jelly, these 30+ Chinese New Year dessert recipes offer a delightful array of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re looking for something simple to prepare or a showstopper dessert for a gathering, these recipes are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your celebration.

So, gather your ingredients, get creative, and let the new year begin with delicious, festive desserts that will ensure a prosperous year ahead!

Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame Balls, or “Jian Dui,” are a popular and traditional Chinese dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year celebrations. They consist of a sweet filling, often made of red bean paste, wrapped in glutinous rice dough, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The outer layer becomes crispy and golden, while the inside remains soft and chewy, creating a delightful contrast in texture. These treats symbolize wealth and good fortune, making them an auspicious choice for the festive occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup warm water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 cup sesame seeds
• ½ cup red bean paste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and sugar. Slowly add warm water and knead into a smooth dough.
2. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
3. Flatten each piece of dough and place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center.
4. Carefully seal the dough around the filling, forming a smooth ball.
5. Roll the balls in sesame seeds, ensuring they are well-coated.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, frying until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Remove the sesame balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Allow the sesame balls to cool slightly before serving.

Sesame Balls are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Their golden, crispy exterior paired with the sweet and smooth red bean paste interior makes them an unforgettable dessert for any Chinese New Year celebration. The deep-frying process ensures a satisfying crunch, while the chewy dough and rich filling make each bite a true indulgence. These treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, as they are both easy to make and deeply symbolic of prosperity for the year ahead.

Nian Gao (Sweet Rice Cake)

Nian Gao, or Sweet Rice Cake, is a beloved Chinese New Year dessert that signifies progress and growth, as “nian” sounds like the word for “year” and “gao” sounds like the word for “tall” or “higher.” This sticky, chewy rice cake is often flavored with sweet osmanthus flowers, sugar, or red dates, making it both fragrant and delicious. Nian Gao is traditionally steamed and is often served as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1½ cups water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon osmanthus flowers (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions:

1. Grease a round cake pan with vegetable oil and set it aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water, stirring to create a smooth batter.
3. Stir in brown sugar until completely dissolved. If using, add osmanthus flowers for added fragrance.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
5. Set up a steamer and bring the water to a boil. Steam the rice cake for 40-45 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the water level remains consistent.
6. Once the Nian Gao is firm and has a glossy, translucent appearance, remove it from the steamer. Let it cool before serving.

Nian Gao is a dessert that embodies both tradition and symbolism. With its sticky, chewy texture and subtle sweetness, it offers a comforting, satisfying end to a celebratory meal. The use of osmanthus flowers provides a light fragrance, making each bite a sensory experience. Steaming the cake gives it a soft, delicate texture, which contrasts beautifully with its sweetness. Nian Gao is a must-try for those seeking to embrace Chinese New Year traditions, as it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a wish for progress and growth in the year ahead.

Tang Yuan (Sweet Dumplings in Ginger Soup)

Tang Yuan is a popular Chinese dessert traditionally served during Chinese New Year and Lantern Festival. The glutinous rice dumplings are filled with sweet fillings, such as black sesame paste or peanut butter, and served in a warm ginger syrup. This dish symbolizes family unity and togetherness, as the round dumplings represent completeness and harmony. The comforting warmth of the ginger broth combined with the chewy dumplings makes this dessert a perfect choice for the colder months.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup black sesame paste (or peanut butter)
• 4 cups water (for the soup)
• 2 slices ginger
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and water to form a dough.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, and using your thumb, create a small indentation in the center of each ball.
3. Fill each ball with a small amount of black sesame paste or peanut butter, then seal the dumpling and roll it into a smooth ball again.
4. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot, adding the ginger slices. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Drop the dumplings into the boiling ginger water. Once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Add sugar to the ginger soup and stir to dissolve.
7. Serve the Tang Yuan in bowls with the sweet ginger broth.

Tang Yuan is more than just a dessert—it is a celebration of togetherness and the joy of family. The chewy glutinous rice dumplings, with their warm, sweet fillings, float gracefully in a fragrant ginger broth that warms the soul. This dessert is particularly meaningful during Chinese New Year, as it represents the hope for happiness, unity, and harmony in the coming year. Whether served as a sweet ending to a meal or enjoyed as a snack, Tang Yuan is an iconic treat that brings people together and celebrates the warmth of the season.

Almond Cookies

Almond cookies are a delightful, crunchy treat traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year celebrations. These light, buttery cookies are infused with almond flavor and often topped with a whole almond, making them a perfect snack or dessert to share with friends and family. The delicate sweetness and nutty crunch are symbolic of prosperity and good health, making them a beloved dessert during the festive season. They are easy to make, and their long shelf life ensures they can be enjoyed well beyond the holiday.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Whole almonds (for topping)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
6. Place a whole almond on top of each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Almond cookies are a classic Chinese New Year dessert that embodies the flavors of the season. Their crisp texture, buttery flavor, and almond topping make them irresistible. These cookies are symbolic of good fortune and longevity, often enjoyed during the holiday season for their delightful crunch and satisfying sweetness. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, almond cookies bring both taste and tradition to any Chinese New Year gathering. Whether served with tea or enjoyed as a snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes

Mooncakes are one of the most iconic desserts enjoyed during Chinese festivals, especially around the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year. The lotus seed paste mooncake is a more refined version, made with a smooth, sweet lotus seed filling encased in a tender, golden pastry. The round shape of the mooncake symbolizes completeness and unity, making it a meaningful dessert to share with loved ones during the festive season. These mooncakes are rich and flavorful, with a beautiful balance of sweetness and earthiness.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups lotus seed paste
• 1 tablespoon melon seeds (optional)
• 1 package mooncake dough (available at Asian markets or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for dough)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for dough)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the mooncake dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 12 small circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
3. Take a small ball of lotus seed paste (about 1 tablespoon) and place it in the center of each dough circle. Optionally, add a few melon seeds to the center of the paste for added texture.
4. Gently fold the dough around the paste, sealing it into a ball shape.
5. Lightly flour a mooncake mold and press the filled dough ball into the mold to form the traditional shape.
6. Place the shaped mooncakes on the baking sheet and brush them with a thin layer of egg wash.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let the mooncakes cool before serving.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are an elegant and meaningful dessert that represents family and unity during Chinese New Year. The smooth and velvety lotus seed paste filling contrasts beautifully with the slightly sweet, tender pastry. The addition of melon seeds gives the mooncakes a delightful crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. These mooncakes are perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones, as they hold deep symbolic meaning and add a touch of luxury to the holiday festivities.

Steamed Sweet Potato Cake

Steamed Sweet Potato Cake is a wholesome and naturally sweet dessert often served during Chinese New Year. The cake is made from mashed sweet potatoes, glutinous rice flour, and sugar, steamed to a moist and chewy texture. It has a rich, earthy flavor from the sweet potatoes and a subtle sweetness from the sugar, making it a comforting dessert for the colder months. This dessert is a great option for those looking for a gluten-free, healthier treat that still carries the festive spirit.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Steam the sweet potatoes in a steamer or boil them until soft (about 15-20 minutes). Mash them until smooth and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, glutinous rice flour, sugar, coconut milk, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased steaming dish or cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Steam the cake over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the cake is firm and set.
5. Remove the cake from the steamer and allow it to cool before cutting into squares or slices.
6. Serve at room temperature.

Steamed Sweet Potato Cake is a nutritious and satisfying dessert that brings a lovely, comforting sweetness to your Chinese New Year celebrations. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combines beautifully with the chewy texture of glutinous rice flour, making this cake a delightful and filling treat. Steaming the cake preserves its moistness and soft texture, while the coconut milk adds a hint of creaminess. This dessert is not only delicious but also symbolizes good health and prosperity, making it a perfect addition to the holiday spread.

Red Bean Soup (Hong Dou Tang)

Red Bean Soup, or “Hong Dou Tang,” is a classic Chinese dessert often served during Chinese New Year and other special occasions. It is made from sweet red beans (adzuki beans) simmered with rock sugar and sometimes infused with dried tangerine peel or other traditional flavors. The soup has a naturally sweet taste with a creamy texture, making it a comforting and warm dessert ideal for colder weather. This dessert is believed to bring good fortune and is often served to symbolize happiness and the sweetness of life.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red adzuki beans
• 5 cups water
• ¼ cup rock sugar (or to taste)
• 2 dried tangerine peels (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the red beans under cold water and soak them in water for about 4 hours, or overnight, to soften.
2. Drain the beans and place them in a large pot with 5 cups of fresh water.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are soft and break apart easily.
4. Add the rock sugar and tangerine peels (if using), and stir to dissolve the sugar. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
5. Taste the soup and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of the red bean soup.

Red Bean Soup is a cherished dessert that offers both warmth and sweetness during Chinese New Year. Its rich, creamy texture and the subtle flavor of the red beans make it an ideal dish to end a meal or to enjoy as a refreshing treat on a chilly day. The addition of tangerine peel adds a unique layer of fragrance, enhancing the depth of the soup’s flavor. This dessert not only represents good fortune but also signifies family unity, making it a meaningful and nourishing way to celebrate the festive season.

Sweet Taro Balls (Yam Balls)

Sweet Taro Balls, or “Yam Balls,” are a traditional Chinese dessert often enjoyed during festivals such as Chinese New Year. These chewy balls are made from taro root, a starchy root vegetable with a sweet, nutty flavor, which is mashed and mixed with glutinous rice flour to form a dough. The balls are then boiled and served in a sweet syrup or with coconut milk. Taro symbolizes wealth and prosperity, making these chewy, flavorful treats a perfect addition to any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized taro roots (peeled and cubed)
• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ¼ cup sugar (for syrup)
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk (optional)
• Water (for boiling)

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil the taro cubes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and easily mashable.
2. Mash the taro into a smooth paste. Add the glutinous rice flour and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more rice flour until it is manageable.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble.
4. Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently drop the taro balls into the water. Once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the taro balls with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain.
6. In a separate pot, bring 1/4 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil to make the syrup. Optionally, add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
7. Serve the taro balls warm, drizzled with the sweet syrup or coconut milk.

Sweet Taro Balls are a delectable and satisfying dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of taro with the chewy texture of glutinous rice dough. Served in a sweet syrup or with coconut milk, they make for a comforting and indulgent treat during Chinese New Year. Taro is traditionally associated with wealth and prosperity, making this dessert both delicious and meaningful. Whether served warm or cold, Sweet Taro Balls are sure to delight guests with their chewy texture and subtle sweetness, symbolizing good fortune for the year ahead.

Chinese New Year Cake (Chun Gao)

Chinese New Year Cake, also known as “Chun Gao,” is a sticky, sweet rice cake that is popular during Chinese New Year. Made from glutinous rice flour, this dessert has a chewy, dense texture and is typically sweetened with brown sugar or rock sugar. It symbolizes growth and progress, as the word “gao” (cake) sounds like the word for “tall” or “higher,” which reflects the desire for growth and success in the new year. It is also often offered to ancestors as a sign of respect and gratitude.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup brown sugar or rock sugar
• A pinch of salt
• A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine water and brown sugar or rock sugar, and bring it to a simmer. Stir until the sugar has fully dissolved.
2. In a large bowl, mix glutinous rice flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the sugar syrup to the flour, stirring to form a smooth batter.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased round cake pan.
4. Steam the batter over medium heat for about 45 minutes, or until the cake is firm and has a sticky, chewy texture.
5. Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before slicing. Optionally, drizzle with a little vanilla extract for extra flavor.
6. Serve the cake at room temperature or chilled, as preferred.

Chinese New Year Cake is a simple yet meaningful dessert that embodies the spirit of growth and prosperity. The sticky, chewy texture of the glutinous rice flour gives the cake a comforting, satisfying bite, while the sweetness of the brown sugar offers a rich and indulgent flavor. Steaming the cake ensures it retains its moist and chewy texture, making it a delightful treat to share with loved ones. This dessert not only celebrates the beginning of a new year but also represents the desire for progress and success in the months to come.

Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame Balls, or “Jian Dui,” are a popular Chinese dessert, especially enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These golden, crispy, deep-fried treats are made with glutinous rice flour and are typically filled with sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste. The outer layer is coated in sesame seeds, which give it a deliciously nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. The combination of chewy dough, sweet filling, and crunchy exterior makes sesame balls a favorite dessert symbolizing prosperity and happiness during the New Year celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ cup sesame seeds
• 1 cup red bean paste or lotus seed paste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and warm water. Stir until the mixture becomes a dough. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball and place a small spoonful of red bean or lotus seed paste in the center. Pinch the dough around the filling to seal it into a ball shape.
3. Roll each filled ball in sesame seeds to coat the outside evenly.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the sesame balls in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Remove the sesame balls from the oil and drain on paper towels. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Sesame Balls are a delightful Chinese New Year treat that combines the joy of crunch and chewiness. The golden-brown crust, covered in sesame seeds, contrasts perfectly with the soft, chewy dough and the sweet filling inside. Symbolizing wealth and good fortune, these treats are enjoyed during the celebrations to bring happiness and prosperity for the coming year. Their crispy exterior and sweet, soft interior make them irresistibly delicious, offering both tradition and taste in every bite.

Egg Tart (Dan Tat)

Egg Tarts, or “Dan Tat,” are a classic Cantonese pastry enjoyed during Chinese New Year and other special occasions. These small, round pastries are filled with a silky smooth egg custard that is both sweet and creamy. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect balance to the delicate custard filling. Originally a fusion of English custard tarts and Chinese flavors, egg tarts have become a beloved dessert in many Chinese households, symbolizing sweetness and happiness in the New Year.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of shortcrust pastry (or homemade pastry dough)
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Roll out the shortcrust pastry and cut into circles to fit the muffin tin. Press the pastry into the tin to form tart shells.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared tart shells, filling them about ¾ full.
5. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the tops are slightly golden.
6. Allow the egg tarts to cool slightly before serving.

Egg Tarts are a delicious fusion dessert that brings together the best of Western and Chinese baking traditions. With their rich, creamy custard filling and flaky, buttery crust, these little tarts are perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations. The golden custard symbolizes wealth and happiness, while the light, crisp pastry adds a delightful texture to each bite. Whether served at tea time or as part of a festive spread, egg tarts bring a touch of elegance and sweetness to the table, making them a cherished treat for all ages.

Coconut Rice Cake (Nuomici)

Coconut Rice Cake, or “Nuomici,” is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert made with glutinous rice flour and coconut. The cake is chewy, slightly sweet, and offers the rich flavor of coconut. It’s often enjoyed in southern regions of China, especially during the holiday season, and is believed to symbolize good luck, wealth, and abundance. The combination of coconut and rice flour creates a comforting, satisfying dessert that’s perfect for those who prefer a simple yet flavorful treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups glutinous rice flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ¼ cup shredded coconut
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add the coconut milk and stir until the mixture forms a smooth batter.
3. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Steam the cake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cake is firm and set.
5. Let the cake cool completely before slicing into squares or wedges.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Coconut Rice Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that captures the essence of Chinese New Year. The soft, chewy texture and fragrant coconut flavor make it an enjoyable treat to share with friends and family. It’s a dessert that represents abundance and good fortune, making it a meaningful addition to the holiday festivities. Whether served at a family gathering or offered to guests, this traditional cake offers a sweet, comforting end to a meal and is a perfect way to usher in the new year.

Sweet Osmanthus Jelly (Gui Hua Gao)

Sweet Osmanthus Jelly, or “Gui Hua Gao,” is a fragrant and delicate dessert made from osmanthus flowers, which are often used in Chinese cuisine for their sweet, floral aroma. The jelly is light and refreshing, with a subtly sweet flavor that makes it a popular treat during Chinese New Year. It is typically served chilled and is often enjoyed as a palate cleanser or a light dessert after a heavy meal. The osmanthus flowers symbolize love and romance in Chinese culture, making this jelly a meaningful and refreshing way to celebrate new beginnings.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried osmanthus flowers
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 ½ teaspoons agar-agar powder (or gelatin)
• 3 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the osmanthus flowers to remove any dust and impurities.
2. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the osmanthus flowers and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the water with their flavor.
3. Strain the liquid to remove the flowers, and return the infused water to the saucepan.
4. Stir in the agar-agar powder (or gelatin) and sugar, and simmer the mixture until the powder is completely dissolved. Add honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
5. Pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving cups and allow it to cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the jelly has set. Serve chilled.

Sweet Osmanthus Jelly is a refined and aromatic dessert that offers a light, refreshing end to a festive meal. The delicate floral fragrance of osmanthus flowers combined with the smooth, gelatinous texture makes it a favorite among those seeking a light yet flavorful treat. It’s a dessert that symbolizes good fortune, romance, and renewal—perfect for the hopeful energy of Chinese New Year. Whether served at family gatherings or shared with friends, this jelly brings a touch of elegance and serenity to the celebration.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncake (Yue Bing)

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes, or “Yue Bing,” are a traditional Chinese pastry that is particularly popular during the Mid-Autumn Festival but is also enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These mooncakes have a rich lotus seed paste filling encased in a golden, tender pastry crust. The lotus seed paste symbolizes purity and is believed to bring good health and longevity. Though the mooncake is often eaten in the fall, its symbolism of family unity and good fortune makes it an ideal dessert for celebrating the new year as well.

Ingredients:

• 1 package mooncake dough (or homemade dough)
• 1 cup lotus seed paste (available at Asian markets)
• 2 tablespoons golden syrup
• 1 teaspoon alkaline water (lye water)
• ¼ cup salted egg yolks (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mooncake mold or baking tray.
2. Roll the mooncake dough into small, even balls. Flatten each ball into a disc and place a spoonful of lotus seed paste in the center.
3. If using salted egg yolks, place a yolk in the center of the paste. Carefully seal the dough around the paste and yolk, shaping it into a smooth ball.
4. Place the filled dough ball into the mooncake mold and gently press to form the mooncake shape.
5. Brush the tops of the mooncakes with a little golden syrup to give them a shiny, golden finish.
6. Bake the mooncakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are a decadent and symbolic dessert that brings families together during Chinese New Year. The soft, delicate pastry paired with the smooth, sweet lotus seed filling makes each bite a heavenly experience. Whether enjoyed during festive gatherings or given as gifts, mooncakes are an iconic representation of unity, prosperity, and longevity. The addition of salted egg yolks is optional but adds a savory note to balance the sweetness, enhancing the complexity of the dessert.

Pineapple Tarts (Feng Li Su)

Pineapple Tarts, or “Feng Li Su,” are a popular Chinese New Year treat, especially in Singapore and Malaysia. These small, buttery pastries are filled with a tangy-sweet pineapple jam and are typically shaped into little bite-sized tarts. Pineapples are a symbol of wealth and good fortune in Chinese culture, and the tart, jammy filling represents sweetness in life. Pineapple Tarts are adored for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust and their refreshing fruit filling, making them a must-have during the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Ingredients:
For the pastry:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the pineapple jam:

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, grated
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions:

1. To make the pineapple jam, combine the grated pineapple, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid evaporates. Set aside to cool.
2. For the pastry, mix the flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into small rounds.
5. Place a teaspoon of cooled pineapple jam in the center of each pastry round. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a tart shape.
6. Place the tarts on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow the tarts to cool before serving.

Pineapple Tarts are a rich, buttery treat that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year. Their sweet and tangy pineapple filling inside a delicate pastry shell makes them incredibly satisfying to eat. Pineapples are believed to bring good fortune, and these tarts are often enjoyed with family and friends during the holiday. With their bright golden hue and mouthwatering flavors, Pineapple Tarts make for an irresistible and meaningful dessert that will add sweetness and joy to any New Year celebration.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!