Best Easy Water Chestnut Cake Recipe

Crunchy water chestnuts are set in a translucent rice flour jelly and pan-fried until golden. This dim sum family dessert has a uniquely refreshing crunch and delicate sweetness.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 160 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh water chestnuts 1 cup
  • water chestnut flour 1 cup
  • rice flour 1 cup
  • water 2.25 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • granulated sugar 1 cup
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 35 g 88%
Protein 1.5 g 4%
Fat 1 g 8%
Serving size 100g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Peel and dice the fresh water chestnuts into small cubes, ensuring even pieces for a uniform crunch.

  2. 2

    In a mixing bowl, combine water chestnut flour and rice flour, then gradually whisk in 1.5 cups of water until smooth and lump-free.

  3. 3

    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining 0.75 cup water and granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat.

  4. 4

    Slowly pour the hot sugar water into the flour mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Fold in the diced water chestnuts.

  5. 5

    Grease an 8-inch square cake pan with 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Pour in the batter and use a spatula to smooth the surface. Steam the pan over medium-high heat for 45–50 minutes, or until the cake is set and translucent.

  6. 6

    Cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, cut the cake into 1/2-inch slices.

  7. 7

    Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry cake slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp on both sides. Serve warm for best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Water Chestnut Cake recipe?
The star ingredient is fresh water chestnuts, which deliver a crisp, juicy bite and refreshing sweetness. Their texture is essential to this dim sum dessert, lending the cake its signature crunch beneath the delicate jelly.
Q. Why is careful steaming and chilling important for this cake?
Steaming ensures the flours gel into a smooth, translucent cake without overcooking or tough spots. Chilling the cake thoroughly helps it set firmly, making it easier to cut into neat slices for perfect pan-frying later.
Q. How can I prevent the Water Chestnut Cake from sticking or falling apart when pan-frying?
Greasing the pan and allowing slices to fully chill before frying help maintain structure. Use moderate heat and avoid moving the slices prematurely; wait until one side is golden so it releases easily from the pan.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in each serving?
Each 100g serving contains about 160 kcal and 35 grams of carbohydrates, with the calories coming predominantly from carbs—making up 88% of its energy.
Q. Is this dessert suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are plant-based and vegetarian-friendly, with no animal products or byproducts included.
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