At the table
Break or cut a portion into small bites. Let freshly steamed cake cool before eating.
Contains wheat, egg and milk. Custard-powder ingredients vary by brand; check the actual recipe for restrictions.
Milk, sugars and raising methods vary. This egg-and-milk version is not vegan; do not infer a restaurant's full recipe from its appearance.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Some versions use a fermented starter; this one uses baking powder and baking soda.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Sweet, with egg and brown-sugar aromas.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft and airy, with a moist crumb.
- How it’s made
- Whisk eggs and sugars, fold in the dry ingredients, milk and oil, then steam.
Some versions use a fermented starter; this one uses baking powder and baking soda.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Hong Kong.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有马拉糕吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
A sweet choice at dim sum
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
Ma lai go offers a steamed sponge-cake option among Cantonese dim sum. Starter-based and quicker raised versions have different crumb structures; the name does not promise one fixed recipe.
