20+ Irresistible Chinese New Year Treats Recipes to Celebrate the Festivities

Chinese New Year is a time for celebration, family reunions, and, of course, indulging in delicious treats that symbolize good fortune, happiness, and prosperity for the year ahead.

The array of sweet and savory treats enjoyed during the holiday is rich in tradition and cultural significance.

Whether you’re planning to host a festive gathering or simply want to try your hand at creating authentic Chinese New Year desserts, this collection of “20+ Chinese New Year Treats Recipes” will guide you through the delicious options to enhance your celebration.

From the chewy goodness of Tang Yuan (sweet rice dumplings) to the crunchy delight of peanut brittle, these treats are bound to bring joy to your table.

Each recipe carries its own unique symbolism and flavor, offering not only a taste of Chinese culinary traditions but also a deeper connection to the holiday’s spirit.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or something in between, there’s a Chinese New Year treat for every palate.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into these festive and flavorful recipes that will make your Chinese New Year celebration truly memorable.

20+ Irresistible Chinese New Year Treats Recipes to Celebrate the Festivities

As you prepare for a joyful and prosperous Chinese New Year celebration, the treats you serve can be more than just delicious—each bite is infused with meaning and tradition.

The “20+ Chinese New Year Treats Recipes” featured here are a beautiful way to bring family and friends together while honoring centuries-old customs.

From the simple joy of sesame balls to the rich indulgence of mooncakes, these recipes are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Embrace the flavors of Chinese New Year, celebrate the reunion of loved ones, and create new memories around the table with these delightful and meaningful treats.

Sweet Sesame Seed Balls (Jian Dui)

Sweet Sesame Seed Balls, or Jian Dui, are a traditional Chinese dessert commonly enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These deep-fried dumplings are made from glutinous rice dough and filled with sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste. The outer layer is rolled in sesame seeds, giving them a crunchy texture that complements the chewy, slightly sweet inside. These treats symbolize wealth and prosperity, making them an ideal choice for the festive occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ cup sesame seeds (black or white)
• 1 cup red bean paste (or lotus seed paste)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 12 small portions. Flatten each portion into a disc.
3. Place about 1 tablespoon of red bean paste in the center of each disc. Gently pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the paste inside, forming a ball.
4. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame seed balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
6. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Allow the sesame balls to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Sweet Sesame Seed Balls are a delightful and symbolic treat for Chinese New Year. Their crispy exterior and chewy interior create a delicious contrast of textures that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these treats are not only a delicious way to celebrate the holiday but also a gesture of good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

Pineapple Tarts

Pineapple tarts are a popular Chinese New Year treat, especially in regions like Singapore and Malaysia. These bite-sized pastries feature a rich, buttery crust topped with a dollop of sweet and tangy pineapple jam. The combination of the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth pastry with the zesty jam is irresistible. Pineapple tarts are also believed to bring good fortune for the new year, symbolizing wealth and good luck.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1 ½ cups pineapple jam (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently for a few minutes until smooth.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Using your thumb or a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
6. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of pineapple jam into the indentation, gently pressing it into the dough.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the tarts are golden brown.
8. Allow the tarts to cool completely before serving.

Pineapple tarts are a must-have for any Chinese New Year celebration. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pastry paired with the sweet and tangy pineapple jam creates a truly satisfying treat. These little tarts bring good fortune and are a great way to share the joy and prosperity of the new year with loved ones. Whether served at a gathering or gifted to friends, pineapple tarts are a sweet reminder of the year’s new beginnings.

Nian Gao (Sticky Rice Cake)

Nian Gao, also known as Chinese New Year sticky rice cake, is a traditional dish made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. This chewy and dense cake is often served in savory or sweet preparations during the new year celebrations. Nian Gao is symbolic of progress and growth, as its name sounds like “higher year,” suggesting the promise of advancement and prosperity in the coming year. It can be steamed, fried, or served in soups, but the sweet version is the most popular for festive occasions.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Grease a round cake pan with a little vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
3. Add the sugar to the mixture and stir until fully dissolved. If desired, add vanilla extract for a hint of flavor.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Steam the cake over high heat for about 45-60 minutes. Check the cake’s consistency by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean when the cake is fully cooked.
6. Allow the Nian Gao to cool before slicing into small pieces for serving.

Nian Gao is a delicious and meaningful treat that holds deep cultural significance. Its chewy texture and sweet flavor make it a comforting dessert that brings good luck and prosperity in the coming year. Whether served as a snack or dessert after a festive meal, this sticky rice cake represents a sweet start to a promising year ahead. The tradition of making and sharing Nian Gao is a lovely way to celebrate family, unity, and new beginnings.

Almond Cookies

Almond cookies are a popular Chinese New Year treat, known for their light, crisp texture and delicate almond flavor. These cookies are often baked in festive shapes, such as circles or flowers, and topped with a whole almond for an extra touch of elegance. Almond cookies are symbolic of long-lasting good health and are frequently shared among family and friends during the Chinese New Year to promote happiness and well-being in the coming year.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup almond meal
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 24 whole almonds (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond meal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Press one whole almond into the center of each dough ball.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

These almond cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate Chinese New Year, offering a satisfying crunch and a delicate almond flavor. The lightness of the cookies paired with the richness of the almond makes them a delightful treat that everyone will love. As a symbol of good health and long life, these cookies are not only delicious but also carry a special meaning, making them perfect for sharing during this festive time.

Egg Tarts (Dan Tat)

Egg tarts, or Dan Tat, are a classic Cantonese pastry that has become a beloved treat during Chinese New Year celebrations. With their smooth, creamy custard filling encased in a buttery, flaky crust, egg tarts offer the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Originally influenced by Portuguese tarts, these little bites of heaven are enjoyed by people of all ages and are often served as a treat to usher in a sweet and prosperous year.

Ingredients: For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cold water

For the custard filling:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or cooking spray.
2. For the crust, combine the flour and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into circles, pressing them into the muffin tin molds to form tart shells.
5. For the custard filling, whisk the eggs and sugar together until smooth. Heat the milk in a saucepan until just warm, then slowly add it to the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the custard mixture into the tart shells, filling each about ¾ full.
7. Bake the tarts for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Allow the egg tarts to cool before serving.

Egg tarts are a perfect treat to enjoy during Chinese New Year celebrations. Their combination of a buttery, flaky crust with the smooth, silky custard filling makes them a favorite among all ages. These egg tarts are not only delicious but also represent the sweetness and richness that the new year brings. They are perfect for sharing with loved ones and adding a touch of elegance to your holiday festivities.

Coconut Milk Rice Dumplings (Tang Yuan)

Tang Yuan are glutinous rice dumplings typically filled with sweet fillings like sesame paste or peanut butter and served in a warm, fragrant coconut milk broth. They are a popular dessert during Chinese New Year and other special occasions, symbolizing unity, family togetherness, and happiness. The round shape of the dumplings represents completeness and togetherness, making this dish an important part of the celebration, enjoyed by families as they gather to celebrate the start of a new year.

Ingredients: For the dumplings:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• ¼ cup sesame paste or red bean paste (for filling)

For the coconut milk soup:

• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1-2 pandan leaves (optional, for fragrance)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water, stirring until smooth. Add the sugar if using, and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Divide the dough into small portions. Flatten each portion into a disc and place a small teaspoon of sesame or red bean paste in the center. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside, forming a smooth ball.
3. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the coconut milk soup by combining the coconut milk, sugar, and pandan leaves (if using) in a separate saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the soup becomes fragrant.
5. Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them from the water and add them to the coconut milk soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the Tang Yuan warm, enjoying the sweet, chewy dumplings in the coconut milk broth.

Coconut Milk Rice Dumplings, or Tang Yuan, are a warm and comforting dessert perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations. The chewy texture of the glutinous rice dumplings filled with sweet paste, combined with the rich coconut milk broth, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. This dish represents the unity and closeness of family, making it a meaningful and delicious way to celebrate the new year and wish everyone a prosperous, joyful year ahead.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese pastry that is often enjoyed during Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round pastries are filled with a sweet, smooth lotus seed paste and encased in a thin, golden crust. The lotus seed paste symbolizes purity and harmony, making it a popular filling for these festive treats. Their elegant design and rich flavor make them an excellent choice for celebrations and gifting to loved ones during the New Year.

Ingredients: For the dough:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup golden syrup
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon alkaline water (lye water)

For the filling:

• 2 cups lotus seed paste (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup salted egg yolks (optional)

For glazing:

• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mooncake mold with a light layer of oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, golden syrup, vegetable oil, and alkaline water. Stir until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the lotus seed paste into 12 equal portions. If you’re using salted egg yolks, place one yolk in the center of each portion of paste and roll into a ball.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc, and wrap each piece around the lotus seed paste ball. Ensure the filling is fully sealed inside.
5. Lightly dust the mooncake mold with flour, then press each dough ball into the mold to shape the mooncake.
6. Place the mooncakes onto a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes. Brush another layer of egg wash over the mooncakes and return them to the oven to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow the mooncakes to cool completely before serving.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are a true delight for the senses, combining a smooth, velvety filling with a delicate, golden crust. These pastries are perfect for Chinese New Year as they symbolize prosperity, unity, and the sweetness of life. Sharing these mooncakes with family and friends is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday and offer wishes for peace and good fortune in the coming year.

Cake Pops (with Red Envelopes)

Chinese New Year Cake Pops are a fun and modern twist on traditional treats. These colorful cake pops are decorated to resemble the vibrant red envelopes (hongbao) commonly given during the holiday to symbolize good luck and prosperity. With a soft, moist cake inside and a rich coating of chocolate or candy melts on the outside, these cake pops make a festive and memorable addition to any Chinese New Year celebration. They’re perfect for parties or as fun gifts for children and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or your favorite cake recipe)
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red candy melts (or chocolate)
• Small red envelopes (optional, for decoration)
• Lollipop sticks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, then bake the cake in a greased cake pan. Allow it to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
2. Crumble the cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a fork. Place the cake crumbs into a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the butter, milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the butter mixture to the cake crumbs, mixing until the cake forms a dough-like consistency.
4. Roll the cake mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Melt the red candy melts (or chocolate) in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Dip the tip of each lollipop stick into the melted candy before inserting it into the center of each cake ball. This will help the stick stay in place.
6. Once the sticks are inserted, dip the entire cake pop into the melted candy, covering it completely. If desired, you can decorate the cake pops with edible gold dust or sprinkles for extra flair.
7. Allow the cake pops to dry completely on a piece of wax paper.
8. Optionally, wrap each cake pop with a small red envelope for a festive touch. Serve and enjoy!

Chinese New Year Cake Pops are a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday with a modern twist. These cake pops are not only delicious but also visually stunning, with their bright red color symbolizing luck and prosperity. They’re a great way to bring the family together for baking and share in the excitement of the season. Whether served at a gathering or given as gifts, these cake pops are sure to be a hit during the New Year festivities.

Pineapple Jelly

Chinese New Year Pineapple Jelly is a refreshing and light treat that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the smooth texture of jelly. The pineapple is often associated with good fortune and wealth, as the Cantonese pronunciation of “pineapple” sounds like “wong lok” (prosperity). This dessert is simple to prepare and adds a burst of color and flavor to your festive table. It’s a perfect dessert for those who want a lighter, fruit-based option to enjoy during the New Year.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and chopped
• 1 ½ cups pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (or gelatin for a non-vegetarian option)
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of your pineapple)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the chopped pineapple and pineapple juice. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any pulp.
2. In a small saucepan, add the water, agar-agar powder, and sugar (if using). Stir over medium heat until the agar-agar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to simmer.
3. Add the strained pineapple juice to the saucepan, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour the pineapple mixture into silicone molds or small individual serving cups. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Once set, gently remove the jelly from the molds and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
6. Serve chilled for a refreshing and sweet finish to your meal.

Chinese New Year Pineapple Jelly is a delicious and symbolic treat that adds a refreshing and tropical element to your celebration. The natural sweetness of the pineapple combined with the smooth texture of the jelly makes for a delightful dessert that is both light and satisfying. This treat not only represents wealth and prosperity but also provides a cool, enjoyable break from heavier desserts during the festivities. Whether served at a New Year’s banquet or enjoyed as a simple family treat, this pineapple jelly is sure to be a favorite.

Sesame Seed Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame Seed Balls, or Jian Dui, are a popular Chinese dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These golden, crispy treats are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated with sesame seeds. When deep-fried, the outer layer becomes crispy and crunchy, while the inside remains soft and chewy. The round shape symbolizes unity and completeness, making these sesame balls an ideal treat for celebrating the new year. The crunchy sesame seeds and the sweet filling provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds (white or black)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, water, and sugar. Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth dough. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water until it is pliable and easy to work with.
2. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a walnut. Flatten each portion into a round disc.
3. Place a small teaspoon of red bean paste in the center of each disc. Gently fold the dough around the paste to form a ball, ensuring the filling is completely sealed inside.
4. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they stick to the dough.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Remove the sesame balls from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Sesame Seed Balls are a must-try treat during Chinese New Year due to their symbolic meaning of unity, wealth, and happiness. These crispy, golden delights have a perfect combination of textures—from the crunch of the sesame seeds to the chewy glutinous rice dough and sweet red bean paste filling. Whether enjoyed with family or shared as a gift, these sesame balls add a festive touch to any celebration. Their popularity across various Chinese holidays highlights their delicious flavor and cultural significance.

Tangerine Peel and Honey Loquat Candy

Tangerine Peel and Honey Loquat Candy is a traditional Chinese New Year treat that combines the sweet and fragrant flavors of honey with the subtle bitterness of dried tangerine peel and loquat. The candy is made by simmering the ingredients together, resulting in a natural, fragrant sweet with a chewy texture. Loquats, which symbolize good health and longevity, are often used in Chinese herbal medicine, making this candy not only a treat but also a symbol of well-being and prosperity.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup dried tangerine peel
• 1/4 cup dried loquat (or loquat paste)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, depending on desired sweetness)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the dried tangerine peel and loquat under warm water to remove any dust or impurities. Cut the tangerine peel into small strips.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the dried tangerine peel, dried loquat, honey, water, and sugar (if using). Stir to dissolve the sugar.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for 30 minutes, or until the loquat has softened and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy consistency.
4. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or mold and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
6. After the candy has set, cut it into small pieces and serve.

Tangerine Peel and Honey Loquat Candy is a fragrant and healthy treat that combines the sweetness of honey with the distinct flavors of dried tangerine peel and loquat. This candy is not only a delicious dessert but also a symbol of health, longevity, and prosperity—perfect for Chinese New Year. The chewy texture and subtle sweetness make it an ideal gift or a refreshing treat to enjoy after a hearty meal. It’s a great way to bring a bit of traditional herbal medicine into the festive spirit while celebrating with loved ones.

Almond Cookies

Chinese New Year Almond Cookies are a classic festive treat often served during the New Year celebrations. These delicate cookies are made with almond flour, which gives them a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture. The addition of a whole almond on top symbolizes good luck and wealth for the coming year. These cookies are easy to prepare and make excellent gifts or party favors. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty flavor are sure to delight anyone who enjoys traditional Chinese sweets.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• Whole almonds (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the vegetable oil, sugar, egg, and almond extract until smooth and well-combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly firm but manageable.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Gently press a whole almond into the center of each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
8. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Chinese New Year Almond Cookies are the perfect treat for ushering in the new year with a sweet and nutty flavor. The almonds not only provide a rich taste but also represent wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture. These cookies are light, crispy, and melt in your mouth, making them a favorite among those who enjoy traditional Chinese sweets. Whether served at a family gathering or gifted to friends, they are a delicious way to celebrate the season and share good fortune with others.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese dessert commonly enjoyed during festive seasons, particularly the Mid-Autumn Festival, but they are also perfect for Chinese New Year. These rich, round cakes are filled with smooth lotus seed paste, often with salted egg yolks in the center for added flavor. The mooncake’s round shape symbolizes completeness and unity, making it an ideal treat to celebrate the new year. The combination of the slightly sweet and savory filling with the tender, flaky crust is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup lotus seed paste
• 4 salted egg yolks (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup golden syrup
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon alkaline water (lye water)
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. To make the mooncake dough, combine the all-purpose flour, golden syrup, vegetable oil, and alkaline water in a bowl. Gradually add water until the dough forms into a soft, smooth ball. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the lotus seed paste into small balls, about the size of a teaspoon. If using salted egg yolks, place one yolk in the center of each ball of lotus seed paste and gently shape it into a smooth ball, sealing the yolk inside.
4. Divide the dough into equal portions, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each piece of dough into a disc large enough to wrap around the lotus seed paste ball.
5. Gently wrap the dough around the filling and press the edges together to seal. Carefully shape the mooncake into a round shape.
6. Lightly flour a mooncake mold and press each filled dough ball into the mold to shape it and create a decorative design on top.
7. Place the mooncakes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the outer crust turns golden brown.
8. Allow the mooncakes to cool before serving. For best flavor, let them sit for a day or two to allow the flavors to develop.

Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes are not only a visually stunning treat, but their rich flavors make them an elegant addition to any Chinese New Year celebration. The combination of smooth lotus seed paste and salted egg yolk creates a deliciously savory-sweet contrast, while the flaky crust provides the perfect texture. These mooncakes symbolize unity and prosperity, making them a traditional yet luxurious treat to share with family and friends as part of your festivities.

Peanut Brittle (Hua Sheng Tang)

Peanut Brittle (Hua Sheng Tang) is a beloved snack during Chinese New Year, known for its sweet, crunchy texture and rich flavor. It is often made with peanuts, sugar, and a touch of sesame seeds. This candy is simple yet packed with flavor and is a symbol of prosperity, as the peanuts represent good fortune in Chinese culture. Perfect for snacking or as a gift, Peanut Brittle is both easy to make and enjoy, making it an essential treat to celebrate the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw peanuts (shelled)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Toast the peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set them aside to cool.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly grease the surface with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Once the sugar has melted, bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking without stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage, about 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Once the candy reaches the correct temperature, remove from the heat and immediately stir in the baking soda and sesame seeds (if using). Add the peanuts and mix well to coat.
6. Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Peanut Brittle (Hua Sheng Tang) is a crunchy, sweet delight that symbolizes good fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture. The combination of caramelized sugar and toasted peanuts offers a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the optional sesame seeds add a slight nuttiness to the treat. This easy-to-make candy is perfect for sharing with friends and family or as a festive gift during Chinese New Year. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a timeless classic for the holiday season.

Sweet Rice Dumplings (Tang Yuan)

Sweet Rice Dumplings, or Tang Yuan, are a traditional dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival. Made with glutinous rice flour, these chewy dumplings are often filled with sweet fillings like black sesame paste or red bean paste. Tang Yuan is symbolic of reunion and togetherness, as the round shape of the dumplings represents completeness and unity in Chinese culture. The dumplings are typically served in a sweet syrup, creating a warm, comforting dessert perfect for celebrating the new year with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed)
• 1/2 cup black sesame paste (or red bean paste)
• 1/4 cup sugar (for syrup)
• 4 cups water (for syrup)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Add water a little at a time if needed to achieve the right consistency—smooth and elastic, but not too sticky.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble. Flatten each ball slightly and place a small spoonful of black sesame paste or red bean paste in the center. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside and shape into a smooth ball.
3. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes. Remove them from the water with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. For the syrup, combine 4 cups of water and 1/4 cup of sugar in a pot. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves. Lower the heat and simmer for a few minutes.
5. To serve, place the cooked dumplings in bowls and pour the warm syrup over them. Serve hot.

Tang Yuan is a heartwarming and comforting dessert that brings people together during Chinese New Year. The soft, chewy texture of the rice dumplings, paired with the sweet filling and warm syrup, makes it a perfect treat to share with family and friends. Symbolizing unity and the joy of reunion, Tang Yuan is more than just a dessert—it’s a meaningful tradition that adds a special touch to the festive celebrations. Whether enjoyed as part of a meal or as a sweet finale, these dumplings are a beloved way to ring in the new year.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!