Sun cake is a famous Taiwanese treat that has become a must-try for tourists and locals alike. With its flaky crust and sweet paste filling, it’s hard to resist. However, many people are left wondering about the ingredients that make up this delicious pastry.
While the recipe for sun cake may vary slightly depending on the bakery, the traditional version consists of flour, sugar, and lard for the crust, and maltose and sugar for the filling. These simple ingredients combine to create a sweet and savory flavor that is unique to this dessert. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients that make up sun cake and how they come together to create this tasty treat.
The Origin of Sun Cake as a Traditional Taiwanese Treat
Sun cake is considered as one of the most famous traditional Taiwanese treats, which originated in the city of Taichung, Taiwan. The cake derives its name from its disc-like shape, resembling the sun and hence called the ‘Taisun cake.’ The local pastry chefs in Taichung were inspired to create a new kind of pastry after the city was hit by a massive earthquake in 1999, which led to a decline in the tourism industry.
The cake’s popularity soon spread across the nation, and today it is considered one of Taiwan’s most popular souvenirs, especially among Taiwanese people living overseas. The traditional Sun Cake is made with malt sugar and sesame seeds, which give it a distinctive flavor and a crisp outer layer. Over the years, there have been many variations of the recipe, with some including nuts, fruits, and other flavorings, but the basic ingredients remain the same.
Essential Ingredients in Sun Cake: Flour, Sugar, and More
Sun cake is a traditional Taiwanese pastry that has been around for more than 80 years. It is made with a sweet and flaky crust, filled with a malt sugar and sesame paste that is baked until it turns golden brown. Essential ingredients in sun cake include flour, sugar, malt sugar, sesame paste, baking powder, and vegetable oil.
The crust of sun cake is made by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and vegetable oil. The mixture is then kneaded into a dough and rolled out into thin circles. The filling is made by mixing malt sugar and sesame paste together, creating a sweet and nutty mixture. The filling is then placed inside the crust and the pastry is baked until it is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Overall, sun cake is a delicious treat that you won’t want to miss out on when visiting Taiwan.
The Role of Mung Bean in the Distinctive Filling of Sun Cake
Mung bean is a crucial ingredient that gives Sun Cake its distinct and delectable filling. The beans are first soaked and then boiled until they are tender. The cooked beans are then mashed into a smooth paste, which is mixed with sugar, oil, and various other ingredients, depending on the recipe. This filling is then wrapped inside the pastry dough, which is shaped like a round disc.
The use of mung bean in Sun Cake filling is unique to this Taiwanese pastry and provides a sweet and nutty taste, which is both filling and satisfying. The beans are also high in protein, fiber, and various nutrients, making Sun Cake a healthier snack option compared to other pastries. With its distinctive flavor and texture, Sun Cake is a popular and beloved dessert in Taiwan and has gained popularity beyond its borders, with Taiwanese bakeries all over the world offering their version of this delicious treat.
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Texture of Sun Cake
Achieving the perfect texture of Sun Cake can be tricky, as it requires the right combination of ingredients and baking techniques. The key to achieving a light and moist Sun Cake is to use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Cake flour is finer and lower in protein than all-purpose flour, which results in a more delicate and tender crumb.
Another important factor is the use of oil instead of butter. Oil keeps the cake moist and tender, while butter can make it dense and heavy. Additionally, the eggs should be added one at a time and beaten until fully incorporated to ensure that the cake rises properly. It is also important not to overmix the batter as this can lead to a tough and dense texture. By following these tips, you can achieve the perfect texture of Sun Cake that is light, moist, and delicious.
Unique Variations of Sun Cake Across Taiwan and Beyond
Sun cake is a popular pastry in Taiwan, and there are various unique variations of it available across the country and beyond. One such variation is the green tea sun cake which is made by adding matcha powder to the traditional sun cake recipe. This gives it a distinct green color and a subtle tea flavor. Another variation is the pineapple sun cake, which is known for its delicious filling made of pineapple jam. These cakes are often found in souvenir shops in Taiwan and make for great gifts for family and friends.
Apart from Taiwan, sun cake has also gained popularity in other parts of Asia. In Japan, a similar pastry called ‘honey cake’ is available. It is made using honey, sugar, and flour, and has a similar texture to sun cake. In Hong Kong, a variant called ‘wife cake’ is popular, which has a crispy exterior and is filled with winter melon paste. These unique variations of sun cake across Taiwan and beyond showcase the versatility and popularity of this delicious pastry that has become an essential part of Asian cuisine.
The Cultural Significance of Sun Cake in Taiwan’s Festivals and Celebrations
Sun cake is an essential pastry in Taiwanese culture, which has been serving the people for thousands of years. It has become a tradition to gift sun cakes during significant festivals to friends and relatives as a symbol of good luck. The pastry embodies much cultural significance, and it is customary to share them with loved ones during various auspicious occasions.
One of the key reasons that sun cake is so important in Taiwanese tradition is because it symbolizes the warmth and brightness of the sun. This pastry is an emblem of prosperity, harmony, and togetherness that is celebrated during a wide range of festivities, including birthdays, weddings, and the Lunar New Year. Taiwanese people believe that sun cakes bring happiness and good fortune to the households they are shared with, making them an essential ingredient in any celebration.
Homemade Sun Cake Recipe: Tips and Tricks to Create a Delicious Dessert
Making a homemade sun cake is a fun and delicious way to impress your friends and family. Here are some tips and tricks to help you create the perfect sun cake.
Firstly, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for the recipe. These include flour, sugar, butter, egg yolks, milk, yeast, and sesame seeds. It’s important to measure your ingredients accurately, as even small deviations can affect the final result. Secondly, pay close attention to the temperature and timing during the dough-making process. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and easy to handle. Once the dough has risen, don’t forget to brush it with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds generously for added flavor and texture. Lastly, be patient during the baking process – the cake should be golden brown on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. Follow these tips and tricks, and you’ll be able to create a delicious homemade sun cake for your loved ones to enjoy.
Verdict
Sun cake, a traditional Taiwanese pastry, is a popular delicacy in Taiwan and has gained popularity worldwide. The unique taste, texture, and appearance of the cake make it stand out among other traditional desserts.
The ingredients of sun cake vary by brand and recipe, but the common ingredients include malt sugar, wheat flour, vegetable oil, and eggs. The cake has a crispy outer layer and a soft, chewy inner layer that is slightly sweet. It is a perfect snack to enjoy with tea or coffee during any time of the day.
In conclusion, the sun cake is a cultural icon of Taiwan, showcasing the country’s rich food heritage. The cake’s unique flavor, texture, and appearance have won the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. If you’re a foodie looking to try new flavors, sun cake is a must-try.