Gau (Chinese Mochi Cake)
Gau is a soft, chewy Chinese mochi cake with a sweet coconut flavor and sesame topping, perfect for sharing at celebrations or as a unique dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine Mochiko flour, brown sugar, and baking soda in a mixing bowl.
- Add coconut milk and water to the dry ingredients and mix well until smooth.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or Pam.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes until the cake is cooked through.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider adding a little extra coconut milk or swapping some of the water for more coconut milk. If you want a different flavor, try adding vanilla extract or a pinch of salt. You can also use other toppings like shredded coconut or chopped nuts instead of sesame seeds. This cake is similar in texture to Southern Corn Meal Dumplings, offering a unique chewy experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gau as a delightful dessert or snack, either warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with tea or coffee for a cozy treat. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious contrast. For a savory option, it can complement dishes like Oriental Chicken Spaghetti, balancing flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Gau in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a square for about 15-20 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gau (Chinese Mochi Cake) contains roughly 1011 calories, with 21g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour instead of Mochiko flour?
Mochiko flour is essential for the unique texture of Gau, but you could experiment with glutinous rice flour as a substitute. However, results may vary, as using a different flour might affect the cake's chewiness and flavor.
What can I do if my Gau is too dry after baking?
If your Gau turns out dry, it might be due to overbaking or not enough liquid. To remedy this, serve it with a drizzle of coconut milk or a simple syrup to add moisture. You can also enjoy it with a fruit salad or whipped cream to enhance its flavor.
Is it possible to make Gau vegan?
Yes, you can make Gau vegan by using plant-based milk such as almond or soy milk instead of coconut milk. Additionally, ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. The flavor will still be deliciously rich and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).