Mini Chinese Sponge Cakes, also known as Ma Lai Gao, are light, fluffy, and delicately sweet treats that are popular in Chinese bakeries. These miniature cakes have a soft, airy texture with a slightly caramelized top, making them perfect for tea time or as a delightful snack. Traditionally steamed, this baked version offers a golden-brown finish while maintaining the signature sponginess.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a muffin tin or line it with paper muffin liners for easy removal.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until well combined.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the eggs.
- Beat until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick.
- Mix in the whole milk and vegetable oil, along with the optional vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be smooth but not overworked.
- Fill the Muffin Tin:
- Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ⅔ full.
- This should yield approximately 12 mini cakes.
- Bake the Mini Chinese Sponge Cakes:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, they are ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Mini Chinese Sponge Cakes:
- Use room-temperature eggs for better aeration and a fluffier texture.
- Beat the eggs and sugar thoroughly to achieve a light, airy batter.
- Avoid overmixing the flour to maintain the delicate sponge-like consistency.
- Experiment with flavors by adding a touch of lemon zest or matcha powder for a unique twist.
These Mini Chinese Sponge Cakes are a delightful bite-sized dessert that encapsulates the essence of sweet elegance. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, served to guests, or simply indulged in as a treat, they bring a touch of Asian culinary charm to your palate. You can find more details here. Happy baking! 🍰✨