Sticky Cake (Nian Gao)

May 18, 2023May 18, 20230 4

Sticky Cake (Nian Gao) Recipe for Traditional Chinese New Year Treats

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

10 min

Cook

60 min

Ready In

70 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	3 1/4 cups glutinous-rice flour
	2/3 cup brown sugar
	7 ounces boiling water
	1/2 cup chinese dates , softened in water and cut in half with pits removed ( optional )
	1 tablespoon milk
	water , as needed
	1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
	1 tablespoon vegetable oil or 1 tablespoon nonstick cooking spray

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

289

Sugar

19g

Fat

Sticky Cake (Nian Gao) is a festive treat that is commonly eaten during Chinese New Year celebrations. It is a sweet and sticky cake made from glutinous-rice flour and brown sugar, and is often flavored with sesame seeds or Chinese dates. Sticky Cake symbolizes the hope for a sweet life in the coming year, as the name of the cake, Nian Gao, sounds the same as the Chinese New Year's phrase, 'Nian Nian Gao Sheng' which means to have a prosperous year every year. In Chinese culture, Sticky Cake is believed to bring good luck, longevity, and happiness, which is why it is a popular gift during this special time of the year.

Instructions

1.	In a bowl, mix together the glutinous-rice flour and brown sugar until well combined.
2.	Slowly add the boiling water to the mixture and mix until smooth.
3.	Pour the batter into a greased pan or lined with parchment paper that fits it and place it in a steamer.
4.	Steam the cake for about an hour or until it is cooked through.
5.	Once cooked, remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool down to room temperature.
6.	Mix together the milk and some water until smooth to create a glaze for the cake.
7.	Brush the glaze on top of the cake and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
8.	Cut into slices and serve.

PROS

Sticky Cake is a traditional Chinese New Year treat that is easy to make and delicious to eat.

It is made from simple ingredients and is naturally gluten-free.

CONS

Sticky Cake can be quite sticky and chewy, which may not be to everyone’s liking.

It is also relatively high in calories and sugar due to the use of brown sugar.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although Sticky Cake is not particularly healthy, it is made from glutinous-rice flour, which is high in carbohydrates and provides energy to the body.
The Chinese dates used in the recipe are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.