Taiwanese Pineapple Cake, known as “feng li su,” is a delightful pastry that marries a buttery, crumbly crust with a sweet, tangy pineapple filling. This beloved Taiwanese dessert has captured the hearts—and taste buds—of many, making it a quintessential treat during festivals and celebrations. Its appeal lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its charming presentation, making it a perfect gift or a delightful addition to any tea time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Taiwanese pineapple cake recipe for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttery crust is tender and crumbly, while the pineapple filling offers a delightful sweetness with a hint of tartness. Not only is it easy to make, but it also fits well into various lifestyles—ideal for those looking for a treat that isn’t overly indulgent yet satisfies a sweet tooth. Plus, these cakes freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes!
Tips and Tricks
1. Use Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, ripe pineapple. If fresh is not available, canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but make sure to drain it well.
2. Chill the Dough: After preparing the dough, chilling it for at least 30 minutes helps in making it easier to handle and enhances the texture.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar in the pineapple filling.
4. Egg Wash: For a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of the cakes with an egg wash before baking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the pineapple filling a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dough can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. When ready to use, just thaw and roll out!
Recipe Variations
1. Flavored Fillings: Experiment with different fruit fillings like mango or red bean paste for a unique twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
3. Mini Versions: Make bite-sized versions of these cakes for a fun treat at parties or gatherings.
How to Serve
Serve the Taiwanese pineapple cakes slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of oolong tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For an elegant presentation, dust with powdered sugar and place them on a decorative plate, garnished with fresh pineapple slices or mint leaves.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your pineapple cake with a refreshing iced tea or a light white wine, such as a Riesling. For a sweet finish, consider serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake, allowing its creamy texture to balance the fruity filling.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the cooled cakes in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and omit the egg wash or replace it with a non-dairy milk wash. For gluten-free adaptations, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh, juicy pineapple for the filling. In fall, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. During winter, canned or frozen pineapple can be a great alternative when fresh fruit is less accessible.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pineapple? Yes! You can use other fruits like mango or apple, but adjust the sugar accordingly based on the fruit’s sweetness.
2. What if my dough is too crumbly? If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a little more butter or a splash of water to help it come together.
3. Is it okay to skip the egg wash? Absolutely! The egg wash is for color; you can simply brush with a bit of milk or leave it off for a vegan option.
Taiwanese Pineapple Cake
Taiwanese Pineapple Cake, known as “feng li su,” is a delightful pastry that marries a buttery, crumbly crust with a sweet, tangy pineapple filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix well. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until a dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Shape the Cakes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into squares and place a tablespoon of pineapple filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners over the filling and seal.
- Bake: Place the shaped cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 198Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 52mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 1gSugar: 11gProtein: 3g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Taiwanese pineapple cake is a joyful experience, and with this recipe, you’ll find that it’s not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. The sweet, tangy filling wrapped in a buttery crust creates a delightful treat that can be shared with friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
