Best Easy Osmanthus Nian Gao Recipe

Fragrant osmanthus nian gao with delicate floral sweetness is an elegant festive dessert. A family recipe with aromatic, natural flower flavor.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 180 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • sweet rice flour 2 cups
  • water 1.25 cups
  • osmanthus syrup 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • sugar 0.75 cup
  • light oil (neutral, such as canola) 2 tbsp
  • salt 0.25 tsp
  • dried osmanthus flowers 1.5 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 85%
Protein 2 g 4%
Fat 2.5 g 11%
Serving size 80g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan with oil to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    In a mixing bowl, combine sweet rice flour and salt. Gradually stir in water until the batter is smooth with no lumps.

  3. 3

    Add sugar and osmanthus syrup to the batter. Mix well until fully dissolved. Stir in oil for a tender texture.

  4. 4

    Fold in dried osmanthus flowers, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

  5. 5

    Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Steam over medium-high heat for 50–60 minutes, covering the pan with foil to prevent water droplets from affecting the surface.

  6. 6

    Let the nian gao cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before unmolding. Slice when completely set for best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Osmanthus Nian Gao recipe?
Sweet rice flour is the essential ingredient in this recipe, providing the signature chewy texture that defines nian gao, while the addition of osmanthus syrup and dried osmanthus flowers imparts a unique delicate floral aroma and flavor.
Q. How do I achieve the best texture for nian gao without making it too hard or sticky?
Steam the nian gao over medium-high heat for about 50–60 minutes, and allow it to cool at room temperature until fully set. Proper heat control and cooling are vital for a tender, cohesive slice that isn't overly sticky or tough.
Q. What is the calorie and nutrition breakdown per serving?
Each 80g serving has about 180 kcal, with 38g carbohydrates (85%), 2g protein (4%), and 2.5g fat (11%). This dessert is primarily carbohydrate-based, with subtle sweetness and light fat content from the oil.
Q. Which step helps preserve the delicate floral aroma of the osmanthus?
Folding the dried osmanthus flowers gently into the batter after all liquids are mixed and before steaming helps infuse the cake with floral aroma while keeping the flower notes fresh and pronounced.
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