Just as American children anxiously await their Christmas gifts months in advance, I anxiously awaited this scrumptious cake.
Nian-Gao, New Year's cake, is one of the most important holiday dishes in many Asian countries. Eating Nian-Gao during the New Year's celebration is said to bring safety and fortune to the entire family for the coming year, though I now make it for family gatherings throughout the year.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 8 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C). Coat a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2
2. Combine the rice flour, sugar, baking powder, cherries, pineapple, dates, and nuts in a large mixing bowl. Mix to combine thoroughly.
Step 3
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the oil and water to the eggs and whisk to blend well. Pour the egg mixture into the fruit mixture and mix thoroughly.
Step 4
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake will have risen when done.
Step 5
5. To remove the cake from the pan, place a serving plate over the cake pan. Holding the plate and the pan together, invert and give the pan a little shake; the cake should drop out onto the plate.
Step 6
6. Decorate the cake with three raisins each for eyes, nuts for the nose, and cherries for a smile. Serve warm.
