Pineapple Cake – Sweet, Tangy, and Oh-So Addictive

If there’s one thing China excels at, it’s weaving history and flavour into its desserts. Meet the Pineapple Cake, a culinary marvel that’s more than just a sweet treat—it’s a dessert with personality. Imagine a rich, buttery crust cradling a perfectly tangy and sweet pineapple filling, all baked to golden perfection. It’s not just a pie, and it’s not just a cake—it’s the delicious offspring of two iconic dessert styles. And it’s here to steal your taste buds’ attention.

Pineapple Cake: A Tale of Two Cultures

The Pineapple Cake is a delightful result of culinary collaboration and experimentation, stemming from the rich traditions of both Chinese and Taiwanese kitchens. In its original form, the pineapple cake (“fengli su”) is a Taiwanese icon, deeply tied to cultural customs. These petite pastries, with their dense pineapple filling and soft crumbly crust, have long been symbols of goodwill and fortune, commonly exchanged during festive occasions such as Lunar New Year or weddings. But, like all good things, innovation was inevitable.

At some point in the dessert’s history, a creative mind decided to elevate the pineapple cake by enveloping its core essence in a pie crust. What emerged was a dessert that retained the symbolic significance and irresistible flavour of its predecessor but added a buttery, flakey twist. China’s take on this treat further refined the balance: a richer, melt-in-your-mouth crust and a lighter, more fragrant pineapple filling. Unlike its chewy, denser Taiwanese counterpart, the Pineapple Cake emphasises delicate textures that crumble and dissolve in the mouth with each bite, leaving behind a sweet and tangy medley of tropical fruit flavours.

Famous Fans of Pineapple Cake

Although Pineapple Cake doesn’t date back to ancient Chinese dynasties, its popularity has soared in contemporary times, garnering admiration from a wide spectrum of fans. Modern Chinese celebrities, including the beloved actress Zhou Dongyu, have openly confessed their fondness for this tangy treat. Zhou has called it her ultimate guilty pleasure, often claiming it’s impossible to stop at just one slice.

The dessert has also become a star attraction at international food expos, where Chinese and Taiwanese stalls proudly present it as their signature dish. Attendees often rave about the balance of buttery crust and fruity filling, making it a showstopper amidst global delicacies.

Notably, world-renowned chef David Chang, celebrated for his ability to blend traditional and modern flavours, has expressed admiration for the original pineapple cake. Given his appreciation for unique flavour profiles, it’s almost certain that he’d find the pie variation irresistible—a dessert that elevates the humble pineapple to gastronomic greatness. The charm of Pineapple Cake extends beyond taste; it’s a culinary ambassador, symbolising the rich heritage and creativity of Chinese and Taiwanese cuisines.

The Perfect Drinks to Pair with Pineapple Cake

What’s a dessert without the perfect drink to complement its flavours? Pineapple Cake, with its buttery crust and tangy-sweet pineapple filling, shines brightest when paired thoughtfully. For tea enthusiasts, light teas like jasmine and oolong are unmatched companions. Jasmine tea’s delicate floral aroma accentuates the tropical notes of the pineapple, while oolong tea’s slightly toasted undertones balance the dessert’s sweetness.

Wine lovers can elevate the experience with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, whose citrusy and herbaceous flavours mirror and amplify the pineapple’s tanginess. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, a bubbly Prosecco adds an effervescent joy to every bite, cutting through the richness of the crust with its light, fizzy character.

For those steering clear of alcohol, the refreshing zing of a pineapple mint cooler is a dreamy non-alcoholic alternative. The mint brings a cooling freshness that pairs seamlessly with the dessert’s tropical vibes, while the pineapple in the drink creates a harmonious echo of the pie’s filling. Whether sipping tea or popping bubbles, the right drink takes this already delectable treat to the next level.

Fun Facts That Make It Even Better

• Pineapple in Chinese culture symbolises prosperity and good fortune. So, eating Pineapple Cake is practically like eating wealth. Who could say no to that?
• The pineapple filling isn’t just pineapple! It’s often a blend of pineapple and winter melon, which balances the acidity and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Taiwanese pineapple cake (and its pie variation) became so iconic that it has been a diplomatic gift. Talk about sweetening international relations!

Ready to Try It Yourself? Here’s How

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 200g plain flour
• 100g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 50g icing sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• A pinch of salt

For the filling:

• 300g fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 100g winter melon (or additional pineapple if unavailable)
• 100g granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Method:

1. Start with the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple, winter melon, and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken. Add the honey and lemon juice, then stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling has a jam-like consistency. Let it cool completely.
   
2. For the crust, mix the flour, salt, and icing sugar in a bowl. Rub the butter into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.
   
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and line a pie tin with it. Save a bit for the lattice top or decorative shapes, if you’re feeling fancy.
   
4. Spoon the cooled pineapple filling into the crust. Use the reserved dough to create a lattice top or fun cut-outs.
   
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool before serving (if you can wait that long).
   

And there you have it – the Pineapple Cake. Sweet, tangy, buttery, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or keeping it all to yourself (no judgement here), it’s bound to be a hit. Cheers to sweet prosperity!