Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Nian Gao traditional rice cake on bamboo plate

Nian Gao Recipe – Easy Steps to Make the Best Traditional Rice Cake

This easy Nian Gao recipe shows you how to make the classic Chinese sticky rice cake at home using simple ingredients. Perfect for Chinese New Year or as a sweet, chewy snack any time of year.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 cup brown sugar (or white sugar)

  • 1 tsp vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional)

  • Banana leaves or parchment paper (optional for lining)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and sugar.

  2. Gradually add water while stirring to form a smooth, lump-free batter.

  3. Lightly oil a cake pan or line it with banana leaves.

  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

  5. Place the pan in a steamer over boiling water.

  6. Cover and steam for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking water levels as needed.

  7. Once set, remove and let cool completely at room temperature.

  8. Slice and serve as is, or pan-fry with beaten egg for a crispy finish.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 1 month.

  • To reheat, steam or pan-fry until warm and soft.

  • You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for added depth.

  • Author: chef Nada
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 cake)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Nian Gao, Tikoy, Chinese New Year, Rice Cake, Sticky Rice Cake