This Chinese Fa Gao, aka Fortune Cake or Prosperity Cake, is a delicious traditional Chinese steamed cake. Fa is a Chinese word for “leavened”, and gao means “cake”. However, fa also sounds like “prosperity” or “wealth” – hence the name Prosperity Cake. This sweet cake is usually served during Chinese New Year. A staple in Chinese cuisine, it is believed to bring wealth and prosperity in the year ahead. When properly cooked, the top of the cake splits open into segments. These splits are crucial – the more defined they are, the more success they will bring.
Start making this Fortune Cake by dissolving the brown sugar in hot water. Mix flour and baking powder and stir in the sugar syrup. Whisk until well combined and completely smooth. Pour the batter into molds and steam over high heat. Remember not to remove the lid during the process. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil with lots of steam when cooking the cake. The steam works with the leavening agent to form those signature splits. Unmold the cakes when ready to serve and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
To make the Chinese Fa Gao, you will need the following ingredients:
In a small bowl, add ½ cup brown sugar and 130 milliliters hot water and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons baking powder.
Add in the sugar syrup and whisk until the mixture is completely smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
Lightly coat 4 egg tart molds with vegetable oil. Divide the batter evenly between the molds.
Fill the bottom of a large wok or stock pot with water deep enough to not run dry during the cooking period and set up the steamer. Once the water is boiling, place the molds in. Cover with a tight fitting lid and steam over high heat for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t remove the lid during the process.
Unmold when ready to serve. Serve warm or at room temperature.
This Chinese Fa Gao, aka Fortune Cake, is typically eaten during the Lunar New Year to bring luck and prosperity for the 12 months ahead. Give this recipe a go soon, and leave us a comment below with your thoughts.
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