Taiwanese Pineapple Cake Recipe – Shortcrust Pastry Cake
This Taiwanese Pineapple Cake, known for its delightful flavor and flaky shortcrust pastry, is a cherished dessert that captures the essence of traditional Asian cuisine. With a sweet pineapple filling encased in a buttery crust, it makes a perfect ending to any meal. Below, you will find detailed instructions and all the necessary ingredients to create this delectable dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Whole Eggs | 1 cup |
| Butter (chilled) | 1/4 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 3 teaspoons |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Pineapple (finely chopped) | 2 cups |
| Jaggery | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 50 mg |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 8
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Asian
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
Making the Shortcrust Pastry
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Prepare the Pastry: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (maida), salt, and chilled butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Combine Ingredients: Crack an egg into the flour mixture, and add the sugar and milk. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. If necessary, add a little water to achieve a soft dough.
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Chill the Dough: Wrap the pastry dough in cling film and refrigerate it while you prepare the pineapple filling.
Preparing the Pineapple Filling
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Cook the Pineapple: Chop the fresh pineapple into small pieces. In a pressure cooker, add the pineapple along with 2 tablespoons of water and cook for at least 3 whistles. This will soften the pineapple.
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Blend the Pineapple: After cooking, transfer the cooked pineapple to a blender and puree it until smooth.
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Make the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the pureed pineapple and jaggery. Cook this mixture while stirring continuously until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens. Allow it to cool completely.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) as you prepare to assemble the cake.
Assembling the Taiwanese Pineapple Cake
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Divide the Pastry: Remove the chilled pastry from the refrigerator and divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
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Shape the Pastry: Flatten each ball slightly, and place a small amount of the cooled pineapple mixture in the center. Carefully fold the edges together to encase the filling, ensuring there are no openings. Shape the filled pastry into a square or desired shape.
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Prepare for Baking: Arrange the shaped pineapple cakes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush each cake with melted butter and a touch of honey for a glossy finish.
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Bake: Bake the Taiwanese Pineapple Cakes in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Taiwanese Pineapple Cakes warm as a sweet conclusion to a delicious meal. They pair beautifully with dishes such as Spring Rolls, Singapore Rice Noodles, and Chilli Coriander Fried Rice, providing a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
Creating Taiwanese Pineapple Cake is a rewarding experience that results in a scrumptious dessert that will impress your family and friends alike. With its flaky crust and sweet pineapple filling, this recipe embodies the love and care that goes into Taiwanese cuisine. Enjoy the process, and savor each bite of this exquisite dessert!
