Eating in China
Taichung sun cakes

Taichung sun cakes

台中太阳饼tái zhōng tài yáng bǐng

Flat, round flaky pastries with a sweet maltose filling. The representative lard pastry also uses milk powder; butter versions exist.

Heat
Region
Taiwan
Type
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Hold over a plate or wrapper and break off small pieces; the layers shed crumbs. Tea pairs well.

A useful check

Contains wheat and milk in this version; some are egg-washed. Ask about fats and allergens.

How it may vary

Lard may be replaced by butter; milk and an egg wash vary by recipe.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Lard may be replaced by butter; milk and an egg wash vary by recipe.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Sweet, with a gentle malt aroma.

Chili heat
Texture
Delicate flaky layers around a soft, dense filling.
How it’s made
Layer wheat dough with fat, wrap around maltose filling, flatten and bake.

Lard may be replaced by butter; milk and an egg wash vary by recipe.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Taiwan.

About this regional connection

Taiwan: Sun cakes are associated with Taichung's bakery and gift-buying culture. Their flat round shape and maltose center distinguish them from fruit-filled pineapple cakes.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有台中太阳饼吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

A Taichung bakery souvenir

Sun cakes are associated with Taichung's bakery and gift-buying culture. Their flat round shape and maltose center distinguish them from fruit-filled pineapple cakes.

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