30+ Delicious Chinese New Year Snacks Recipes for Every Celebration

Chinese New Year is a time for family, tradition, and—of course—feasting!

Snacks play an essential role in this annual celebration, symbolizing prosperity, health, happiness, and good fortune for the year ahead.

From sweet treats like pineapple cakes to savory bites like turnip pastries, these snacks are rich in both flavor and symbolism.

Whether you’re looking to host an authentic celebration or simply want to add some festive flavor to your snack repertoire, this collection of 30+ Chinese New Year snack recipes will inspire you with classic and creative options to mark the Lunar New Year.

Get ready to discover an array of delightful flavors and textures that are perfect for sharing and enjoying throughout the holiday.

30+ Delicious Chinese New Year Snacks Recipes for Every Celebration

Celebrating Chinese New Year with traditional snacks is a beautiful way to connect with culture and spread joy among family and friends.

With these 30+ Chinese New Year snack recipes, you’ll have plenty of options to create a memorable spread that represents prosperity, luck, and happiness.

Each snack brings its own unique meaning and taste, adding to the festive atmosphere and honoring the traditions of the New Year.

We hope these recipes inspire you to make this Lunar New Year celebration one to remember—filled with delicious snacks and warm moments shared with loved ones!

Pineapple Tarts (凤梨酥)

Pineapple tarts are a beloved Chinese New Year treat that represents good fortune, as the word for pineapple in Chinese sounds like “prosperity.” These melt-in-your-mouth tarts feature buttery pastry filled with a sweet and tangy pineapple jam. They take a little time to prepare, but the result is well worth it.

Ingredients:

• For the Pineapple Jam:
  • 1 fresh pineapple, grated
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• For the Pastry:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Pineapple Jam:
   • Place the grated pineapple, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (around 30-40 minutes).
   • Remove the cinnamon stick, let the jam cool, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
2. Make the Pastry Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and powdered sugar.
   • Add the butter cubes and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add egg yolks and vanilla extract, and knead into a soft dough.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll out the dough and cut into small circles. Place a teaspoon of pineapple jam in the center of each circle and fold the edges over to cover.
   • Place the tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden.

Pineapple tarts are a flavorful and rewarding treat to serve during Chinese New Year, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Their buttery crust and sweet filling make them an irresistible choice for family and friends!

Shrimp Rolls (虾卷)

Shrimp rolls are crispy, savory snacks enjoyed during Chinese New Year celebrations. Their golden exterior and rich seafood filling symbolize wealth and prosperity. Easy to make and highly addictive, they’re sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and minced
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• Spring roll wrappers
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a bowl, combine the minced shrimp, green onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and white pepper. Mix well until smooth.
2. Assemble the Shrimp Rolls:
   • Cut the spring roll wrappers into smaller rectangles (about 4×4 inches).
   • Place a small amount of shrimp filling at one end of the wrapper, fold the edges over, and roll up tightly. Seal with a bit of water.
3. Fry the Rolls:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat.
   • Fry the rolls until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Shrimp rolls are the perfect Chinese New Year snack to celebrate prosperity and abundance. Their crispy exterior and juicy shrimp filling make them a crowd-pleaser, leaving your guests craving more!

Sesame Seed Balls (煎堆)

Sesame seed balls are an iconic Chinese New Year treat, symbolizing happiness, unity, and prosperity. Their round shape and golden hue represent wholeness and good luck. These crispy treats, filled with sweet red bean paste, are a traditional favorite for festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup red bean paste (or black sesame paste)
• ½ cup sesame seeds
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, dissolve sugar in water.
   • Add glutinous rice flour and mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. Shape the Sesame Balls:
   • Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
   • Flatten each ball, place a small amount of red bean paste in the center, and wrap the dough around it.
   • Roll the balls in sesame seeds until fully coated.
3. Fry the Sesame Balls:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the sesame balls in batches until they puff up and turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Sesame seed balls are a cherished treat for Chinese New Year, embodying luck, joy, and prosperity. Their crispy, chewy texture and sweet filling make them a delightful snack that’s both meaningful and delicious.

Nian Gao (年糕) – Sticky Rice Cake

Nian Gao is a traditional Chinese New Year delicacy symbolizing growth, progress, and the promise of a better year ahead. Made from glutinous rice flour, this sweet and chewy rice cake can be enjoyed in various forms—steamed, fried, or even sliced and stir-fried. Its sticky texture represents unity and togetherness, making it a meaningful addition to your festive table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup brown sugar (or white sugar)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Optional: dried fruits, nuts, or seeds for added texture

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
   • In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar and water.
   • Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
   • Once dissolved, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Rice Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, gradually add the glutinous rice flour to the sugar syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
   • Add the vegetable oil and mix until a smooth, thick batter forms.
   • If desired, fold in dried fruits, nuts, or seeds for added texture and flavor.
3. Steam the Nian Gao:
   • Grease a heatproof dish or mold with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
   • Pour the rice dough into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent water droplets from falling onto the cake.
   • Steam in a steamer over high heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cake is firm and translucent.
4. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the Nian Gao to cool completely in the dish.
   • Once cooled, slice into thin pieces. It can be enjoyed as is, lightly fried, or stir-fried with vegetables and proteins for a savory dish.

Nian Gao is more than just a snack; it embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year by symbolizing growth and prosperity for the coming year. Its versatile nature allows it to be enjoyed in various forms, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether served sweet or savory, Nian Gao brings a sense of tradition and unity to your festive celebrations.

Spring Rolls (春卷)

Spring Rolls are a quintessential Chinese New Year snack representing wealth and prosperity, as their golden color resembles gold bars. These crispy, savory rolls are filled with a mixture of vegetables and sometimes meat, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Their delightful crunch and flavorful filling make them a favorite during festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup bean sprouts
  • ½ cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
  • ½ cup minced pork or shrimp (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the Rolls:
  • Spring roll wrappers
  • 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
   • If using pork or shrimp, add it to the pan and cook until fully done.
   • Add shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
   • Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
   • Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you (diamond shape).
   • Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the corner closest to you.
   • Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly.
   • Roll the wrapper tightly towards the opposite corner, applying the beaten egg to seal the edge.
3. Fry the Spring Rolls:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   • Carefully place the spring rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding.
   • Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the spring rolls hot with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.

Spring Rolls are a festive favorite that not only taste delicious but also bring good fortune and prosperity to the New Year. Their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling make them an irresistible appetizer that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether served at family gatherings or festive parties, Spring Rolls add a touch of tradition and joy to your celebrations.

Almond Cookies (杏仁饼)

Almond Cookies are a popular Chinese New Year snack that signifies good luck and prosperity. These buttery, crumbly cookies are infused with the subtle flavor of almond, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Easy to make and perfect for gifting, Almond Cookies add a touch of elegance and tradition to your festive repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• Whole almonds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg yolk and almond extract, mixing well to combine.
   • In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Gently press each ball with the back of a fork or your fingers to flatten slightly.
   • If desired, place a whole almond in the center of each cookie for added texture and decoration.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Serve:
   • Once cooled, arrange the Almond Cookies on a decorative plate or gift box for serving or gifting.

Almond Cookies are a timeless addition to Chinese New Year celebrations, offering a perfect blend of tradition and taste. Their delicate flavor and pleasing texture make them an ideal snack for both young and old. Whether enjoyed with tea or given as gifts to friends and family, Almond Cookies bring a sense of warmth and prosperity to the festive season.

Peanut Brittle (花生糖)

Peanut Brittle is a crunchy, nutty treat that symbolizes longevity and stability, as peanuts are often considered a symbol of these traits in Chinese culture. This sweet, caramelized snack is a Chinese New Year classic, loved for its simple ingredients and delightful crunch. It’s also perfect for gifting, as it stores well and can be enjoyed for days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted peanuts
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peanuts:
   • Lightly crush the peanuts if they are whole, or use them as they are if already in pieces.
   • Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Syrup:
   • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely and turns golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
   • Once the sugar is caramelized, add the butter and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Combine with Peanuts:
   • Turn off the heat, add the peanuts and baking soda to the caramel mixture, and stir quickly. The mixture will bubble and become frothy.
   • Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly.
4. Cool and Break:
   • Let the peanut brittle cool completely. Once hardened, break it into bite-sized pieces.

Peanut Brittle is a satisfying and meaningful treat for Chinese New Year. Its nutty flavor and crunchy texture make it a perfect snack to celebrate longevity and stability in the new year. Easy to make and enjoyable to eat, this treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Fried Dough Twists (麻花)

Fried Dough Twists, or “Mahua,” are a popular Chinese New Year snack, representing togetherness and good fortune. Made by twisting dough strips and frying them until golden brown, these treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re typically lightly sweetened, though they can also be flavored with sesame or honey, making them an enjoyable and unique festive snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar or honey (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, water, and sesame oil, then add it to the dry ingredients.
   • Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Shape the Dough Twists:
   • Divide the dough into small portions, roll them into thin strips, and twist two strips together to form each dough twist.
   • Press the ends together to secure the twist.
3. Fry the Dough Twists:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry the dough twists in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
   • Drain on paper towels and, if desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.

Fried Dough Twists are a wonderful snack that embodies unity and togetherness, making them perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year. Their crispy, slightly sweet taste and unique shape make them a fun and delicious treat for everyone to enjoy!

Sweet Rice Balls (汤圆)

Sweet Rice Balls, or Tangyuan, are a traditional Chinese snack served during Lunar New Year and other family gatherings. Their round shape symbolizes unity and completeness, making them a perfect treat for bringing families together. Filled with sweet fillings like black sesame, peanut, or red bean, these soft and chewy rice balls are often served in a light syrup, adding a comforting sweetness to celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup black sesame paste, peanut paste, or red bean paste (for filling)
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• ¼ cup sugar (for syrup, optional)
• Ginger slices (optional for syrup)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour with water. Mix until a soft dough forms.
   • Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one.
2. Add the Filling:
   • Place a small amount of filling (about ½ teaspoon) in the center of each flattened dough ball.
   • Carefully wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
3. Cook the Rice Balls:
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the rice balls into the boiling water.
   • When the rice balls float to the surface, cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Syrup (Optional):
   • In a separate pot, combine 4 cups of water, sugar, and ginger slices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Serve:
   • Place the cooked rice balls in a bowl, and ladle the ginger syrup over them. Serve warm.

Sweet Rice Balls are a comforting and symbolic treat that represent unity and family togetherness. Their soft, chewy texture and delightful filling make them a meaningful and delicious addition to your Chinese New Year celebrations. Whether served as a dessert or a snack, Tangyuan brings warmth and joy to gatherings.

Egg Custard Tarts (蛋挞)

Egg Custard Tarts are a popular Chinese dessert that originated from the influence of Portuguese cuisine and have become a staple at Chinese bakeries. With a flaky crust and creamy, custard-like filling, these mini tarts are delicately sweet and satisfying. Their bright yellow filling symbolizes prosperity and happiness, making them an ideal snack for the New Year celebrations.

Ingredients:

• For the Pastry:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3-4 tablespoons cold water
• For the Custard Filling:
  • ½ cup hot water
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Make the Pastry:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add the butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water and knead lightly to form a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
   • Roll out the dough and cut into circles that fit mini tart molds. Press the dough into the molds and refrigerate while you prepare the custard.
2. Prepare the Custard Filling:
   • Dissolve sugar in hot water and let it cool to room temperature.
   • In a separate bowl, beat eggs and then add evaporated milk and vanilla extract. Stir in the sugar water.
   • Strain the custard mixture to remove any bubbles or lumps.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Pour the custard filling into the tart shells, filling each about ¾ full.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Egg Custard Tarts are a delightful treat to add to your Chinese New Year table. Their creamy texture and flaky crust offer a comforting sweetness that’s hard to resist. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these tarts add warmth and prosperity to any celebration.

Radish Cake (萝卜糕)

Radish Cake, or “Lo Bak Go,” is a savory dim sum favorite often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Made with shredded radish (daikon) and rice flour, it’s usually steamed and then pan-fried for a crispy outer layer. This dish is rich in flavor and symbolizes good fortune and prosperity, making it an auspicious and delicious snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 large daikon radish, peeled and grated
• 1 cup rice flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
• ¼ cup Chinese sausage, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Daikon Mixture:
   • Sauté dried shrimp and Chinese sausage in a pan until fragrant, then set aside.
   • In the same pan, cook grated daikon radish with a bit of water until softened, about 10 minutes.
   • Add the sautéed shrimp, sausage, and chopped green onions to the radish. Season with salt and white pepper.
2. Make the Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
   • Add the daikon mixture to the batter and mix well.
3. Steam the Radish Cake:
   • Pour the mixture into a greased steaming dish.
   • Steam over high heat for 45-60 minutes until the cake is firm and set.
   • Let cool, then cut into slices.
4. Fry and Serve:
   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan and pan-fry the slices until golden on each side.
   • Serve warm with soy sauce or chili paste.

Radish Cake is a satisfying, savory addition to your Chinese New Year celebrations. Its crispy edges and soft interior offer wonderful textures, while its rich flavor embodies the traditional taste of dim sum. This dish is not only delicious but also carries auspicious meanings for a prosperous year ahead.

Candied Lotus Root with Sticky Rice (糖藕)

Candied Lotus Root with Sticky Rice is a unique and beautiful dessert that symbolizes abundance and unity. The lotus root is stuffed with sticky rice and simmered in a sweet syrup until tender. This elegant treat is perfect for the Chinese New Year, as lotus roots represent prosperity and the idea of being “connected” through generations.

Ingredients:

• 1 large lotus root, peeled and ends trimmed
• ½ cup glutinous rice, soaked for at least 2 hours
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup rock sugar or granulated sugar
• 3-4 red dates (optional)
• Water, enough to cover the lotus root

Instructions:

1. Stuff the Lotus Root:
   • Rinse and drain the glutinous rice.
   • Carefully stuff the rice into the holes of the lotus root until completely filled. Use a chopstick to press the rice down to ensure it’s tightly packed.
2. Cook the Lotus Root:
   • In a large pot, add the lotus root, brown sugar, rock sugar, and enough water to cover the root. Add red dates for extra flavor, if desired.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until the lotus root is tender and sweetened.
3. Cool and Slice:
   • Remove the lotus root and let it cool slightly. Slice it into thin rounds, revealing the rice inside.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the lotus root slices warm or chilled, drizzled with the sweet syrup from the cooking liquid.

Candied Lotus Root with Sticky Rice is a truly symbolic and delicious treat for Chinese New Year. Its beautiful presentation and sweet, tender flavor make it a wonderful addition to any festive meal, representing abundance and unity for the coming year. This dessert not only delights the senses but also brings good wishes and harmony to the family.

Sesame Balls (煎堆)

Sesame Balls, or “Jian Dui,” are popular Chinese New Year treats made of glutinous rice flour filled with sweet fillings, like red bean paste, and coated in sesame seeds before being fried. Their round shape and golden color symbolize fullness, wealth, and prosperity, making them a favorite snack during the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• Red bean paste or lotus seed paste for filling
• Sesame seeds for coating
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
   • Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a ping-pong ball.
2. Fill and Shape:
   • Flatten each dough ball and add a small spoonful of filling in the center.
   • Gently wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely, and roll it back into a ball.
3. Coat with Sesame Seeds:
   • Lightly moisten the surface of each ball and roll it in sesame seeds, pressing the seeds gently to ensure they stick.
4. Fry the Sesame Balls:
   • Heat oil in a deep pan to 325°F (160°C). Carefully add the sesame balls in batches, frying until they are golden brown and puffed up, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Sesame Balls are a delightful, crispy treat that embody wealth and prosperity. Their sweet filling and crunchy sesame coating make them a unique addition to any Chinese New Year spread, bringing joy and good fortune to those who enjoy them.

Turnip Pastries (萝卜酥饼)

Turnip Pastries, or “Luóbo Sū Bǐng,” are a flaky, savory pastry filled with shredded turnip and seasonings, commonly enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Known for their delicate layers and savory filling, these pastries symbolize harmony and good luck, making them a wonderful addition to festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup water
• For the Filling:
  • 1 medium turnip, peeled and shredded
  • ¼ cup dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
  • ¼ cup Chinese sausage, diced
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, vegetable oil, and water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
   • Divide the dough into small portions and roll into balls. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, and turnip until tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and white pepper.
   • Allow the filling to cool before assembling the pastries.
3. Assemble and Shape:
   • Flatten each dough ball, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and seal the edges.
   • Press each pastry slightly to flatten into a disc shape.
4. Cook the Pastries:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and pan-fry the pastries until golden and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Turnip Pastries offer a delicious savory contrast to the typically sweet New Year treats. With their flaky crust and flavorful filling, they’re a unique and meaningful snack, perfect for celebrating harmony and good fortune during the New Year festivities.

Pineapple Cakes (凤梨酥)

Pineapple Cakes are a beloved snack in Taiwan and China, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Their sweet, tangy pineapple filling inside a buttery, crumbly crust is not only delicious but also carries auspicious meanings. These treats are a delightful addition to Chinese New Year gatherings and make excellent gifts for loved ones.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple and sugar over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
   • Add the cornstarch mixture and cook until the filling becomes jam-like. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add egg yolk and milk, mixing until smooth.
   • Gradually add flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Cakes:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one. Place a small amount of pineapple filling in the center and wrap the dough around it, forming a square shape.
   • Place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly golden.

Pineapple Cakes are a delightful combination of buttery crust and sweet, tangy filling, perfect for symbolizing good fortune in the new year. Their lovely flavor and meaningful symbolism make them an ideal treat for sharing with friends and family, adding a touch of sweetness and prosperity to the festivities.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!