At the table
Break or cut the cake into small pieces and try the sesame surface and soft center together. Let a freshly baked cake cool before eating. For a packaged cake, follow its storage instructions and check the ingredient label.
Contains wheat and sesame. Malt syrup may be made with barley, and some versions use egg white or honey; check the selected cake and any flavorings for allergies or dietary restrictions. Avoid sugary snacks for children aged 4 or younger, and do not give honey-containing versions to babies under 1.
For older children, divide this sweet cake into small pieces, offer a modest portion and let it cool. Avoid sugary snacks for children aged 4 or younger; do not give honey-containing versions to babies under 1.
Recipes vary. Ask the restaurant about ingredients and serving before you order.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Some versions use honey, while others use egg white or different flavorings.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Sweet
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft inside with a lightly crisp surface.
- How it’s made
- Mix and shape the dough, coat with sesame, heat on a griddle and bake.
Some versions use honey, while others use egg white or different flavorings.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Shanxi.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有太谷饼吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Sesame pressed into the crust
Taigu cakes take their name from Taigu in Shanxi. Makers press the sesame side against a greased griddle, embedding the seeds, then turn and bake the cakes. The golden surface and soft center give two textures in one bite. Behind the familiar round shape, formulas differ: one traditional preparation uses honey, another uses egg white. Check the ingredients of the cake you choose; its sesame crust cannot tell you whether it suits your diet.