A Steamed Egg Custard Cake is a soft, delicate, and silky dessert that has a light custard-like texture, making it the perfect treat for those who enjoy milder, less-sweet cakes. This cake is commonly made in Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese and Taiwanese cooking. It’s typically made with simple ingredients, creating a fluffy and smooth texture through steaming rather than baking. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar (or adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup milk (or a mix of milk and coconut milk for a twist)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 pinch of salt
Directions:
1. Prepare the egg mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
- Add the milk, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. Mix gently to combine.
2. Thicken the mixture:
- Sift the flour and cornstarch into the mixture to help avoid clumps. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
3. Strain the mixture:
- To ensure a silky-smooth texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another clean bowl. This will remove any bubbles, foam, or bits of cooked egg.
4. Prepare the steaming setup:
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil in the lower compartment of the steamer.
- Grease a small round or square heatproof dish (about 7-8 inches in diameter) with a little bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour the egg custard mixture into the greased dish.
5. Steam the cake:
- Place the dish into the steamer. Cover the steamer with a lid or a cloth to prevent water from dripping onto the cake.
- Steam the cake over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The texture should be firm but still wobbly in the center.
- Check the water level in the steamer occasionally and add more water as needed.
6. Cool and serve:
- Once the cake is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Texture: The key to a smooth, velvety texture is the straining step and the steaming process. Don’t skip these!
- Flavor variations: You can add a tablespoon of coconut milk for a rich flavor, or a little lemon zest or orange peel for a hint of citrus.
- Topping: Some people like to drizzle a little sweetened condensed milk over the cake before serving, or garnish with a few fresh berries for added flavor.
This Steamed Egg Custard Cake is wonderfully light and soft, with a subtle sweetness that’s perfect for a light dessert or a cozy afternoon treat. Enjoy!
