A Step-by-Step Recipe for Vietnamese Pineapple Cakes
Vietnamese pineapple cakes, known as "Bánh Dứa," are delightful treats that perfectly combine the sweetness of pineapple with a buttery, flaky pastry. This popular dessert is enjoyed by many and can be made at home with just a few simple ingredients. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create your own batch of delicious Vietnamese pineapple cakes.
Ingredients
For the pineapple filling:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the pastry dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cold water as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Filling
Start by placing the finely chopped pineapple in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar, lime juice, and salt. Stir the mixture well and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pineapple is softened and the mixture becomes thick. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Pastry Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until you form a dough. If the dough appears too dry, add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to make it easier to handle and improves the texture of the pastry.
Step 4: Assemble the Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Divide the dough into small pieces, each about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece into a small circle, approximately 3 inches in diameter.
Place a tablespoon of the cooled pineapple filling in the center of each circle. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them to seal. You can shape the cakes into rounds or rectangles, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Bake the Pineapple Cakes
Place the filled cakes onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Your Vietnamese pineapple cakes are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat.
Conclusion
Making Vietnamese pineapple cakes at home is a rewarding experience that results in a tasty dessert perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can impress your family and friends with the delightful flavors of Vietnam right in your kitchen.