Nian Gao (年糕), also known as Chinese New Year Sweet Rice Cake, is a traditional dessert enjoyed during the Lunar New Year celebrations. The word “nian” sounds like “higher year” (年高), symbolising growth, progress, and the hope for a better year ahead.
Not only is this cake a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also a symbol of good luck for the upcoming year.
This cake has a soft, sticky texture, and is slightly sweet, often flavoured with brown sugar, ginger, molasses, and a hint of orange zest.
It can be steamed, sliced, and pan-fried or eaten as is. It’s also a lovely gift to bring when visiting family during the festive season. Let’s learn how to make this meaningful and delicious dessert at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing pans)
- 3½ to 4 cups water (adjust based on your local humidity)
- 4 slices fresh ginger
- 2 cups dark brown sugar or brown rock sugar
- ½ teaspoon allspice powder
- 1½ pounds (about 675g) glutinous rice flour
- ½ pound (about 225g) regular rice flour
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon dark molasses
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 6 dried dates (optional, for decoration)
How to Make Sweet Nian Gao Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pans
Grease two 8-inch round cake pans lightly with vegetable oil to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Flavoured Water
In a medium pot, add 2 cups of water and the ginger slices. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer with the lid on for 10 minutes. After that, turn off the heat and stir in the brown sugar and allspice. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved. Remove the ginger slices.
Add 1½ cups of cold water to the pot to cool the mixture down. It should be warm, not hot.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and regular rice flour. Gradually pour in the warm ginger-sugar water, stirring as you go. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Add the vanilla extract, molasses, orange zest, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Stir everything together. The batter should have a thick but pourable consistency—similar to condensed milk. If it feels too thick, add water little by little until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 4: Fill the Pans
Evenly pour the batter into the greased pans. Gently tap the pans on the countertop to release any air bubbles. Optionally, place 3 dried dates in the center of each cake for decoration.
Step 5: Steam the Cakes
Place the pans in a bamboo steamer over boiling water. Steam on high heat for about 1 hour. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the pans. Add more water to the steamer as needed.
To check if the cakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cakes are ready. Let the cakes cool before removing them from the pans.
Steaming Tip:
If you’re using a bamboo steamer, ensure it fits your pot perfectly so that no steam escapes. You can also use a large covered pot with a rack to place the pans inside for steaming.
Celebrate the New Year with Sweetness and Meaning
Nian Gao is more than just a delicious dessert—it’s a symbol of success, growth, and happiness in the new year. Whether you eat it warm, share it with loved ones, or gift it to relatives, this soft, sticky cake with its rich brown sugar flavour will make your celebrations extra special.
FAQs
What does Nian Gao symbolise?
Nian Gao symbolises progress, growth, and success in the new year. The word sounds like ‘higher year’ in Chinese, making it a lucky dessert.
Can I use only glutinous rice flour?
Yes, but mixing in some regular rice flour gives a better texture. If you only use glutinous rice flour, the cake may be more sticky and dense.
Do I need to use a bamboo steamer?
No, you can also use a regular steamer or large pot with a rack. Just make sure the steam stays inside and doesn’t escape.
How should I serve Nian Gao?
You can eat it fresh after steaming or slice and pan-fry it later. It tastes great both ways and can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
How long does Nian Gao last?
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat by steaming or pan-frying.
