Are you a dessert lover looking to try something new? Look no further! Red bean cakes are a sweet treat that originated from East Asian cuisine, particularly in China and Japan. These moist and flavorful cakes typically use azuki beans as the main ingredient, which are boiled and then mashed to create a sweet paste. The resulting cake is often denser and more filling-like than traditional Western-style cakes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 different red bean cake recipes from around the world. From traditional Chinese and Japanese recipes to innovative vegan and gluten-free variations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, these delicious recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Read on to discover the diverse world of red bean cakes and get inspired to try out some of these mouthwatering treats!
Traditional Chinese Red Bean Paste Cake
A classic Cantonese dessert, this moist and flavorful cake is a staple at many Asian celebrations. Made with sweet red bean paste and infused with the fragrance of sesame oil, it’s a treat that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (available at Asian markets)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, red bean paste, egg, sesame oil, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Japanese Dorayaki with Sweet Red Bean Filling
Discover the delightful combination of crispy dorayaki pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste, a classic Japanese dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (anko)
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Grease the pan with a small amount of vegetable oil.
5. Using a ladle, scoop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
8. Sandwich a spoonful of red bean paste between two cooked pancakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Bean Mochi Cake for a Chewy Treat
Moist red bean paste and soft mochi wrapped around a fluffy cake – this Japanese-inspired treat is a delightful combination of textures. Perfect for snack time or as a dessert, this chewy cake is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red bean paste
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour (mochi)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add in water, cornstarch, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While the cake is baking, mix red bean paste with vanilla extract.
5. Once the cake is done, let it cool completely. Then, wrap a thin layer of mochi dough around the cake, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Slice into 8-10 pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Steamed Red Bean Sponge Cake
Moist and fluffy sponge cake infused with the sweet aroma of red beans, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in red bean paste and baking powder.
5. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan or mini individual molds.
6. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Red Bean Matcha Cake
Elevate your baking game with this unique and delicious Vegan Red Bean Matcha Cake! This moist and flavorful cake combines the nutty taste of matcha green tea with the sweetness of red bean paste, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup red bean paste
– 1 egg replacement (such as flaxseed or chia seed)
– Optional: whipped cream and matcha powder for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, canola oil, matcha powder, and red bean paste.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Gluten-Free Red Bean Rice Cake
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional rice cakes, this gluten-free version incorporates the natural sweetness of red beans for a tasty snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup cooked red beans (such as azuki or adzuki)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and red beans.
3. Add coconut oil, salt, and baking powder; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
5. Shape into small patties or rectangles.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Bean and Coconut Milk Layered Cake
A moist and decadent cake infused with the sweet flavor of red beans and creamy coconut milk, layered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened red bean paste
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, red bean paste, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, coconut milk, eggs, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Assemble cake by spreading whipped coconut cream between layers, and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (including cooling time).
Taiwanese Red Bean Castella Cake
Castella cake is a classic Taiwanese dessert that combines the sweetness of red bean paste with the lightness of eggs and sugar. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful cake perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) red bean paste
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth.
4. Add red bean paste, oil, and flour mixture to the egg yolks. Mix until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Bean Butter Cake with a Crispy Crust
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of red beans, while its crispy crust adds a delightful textural contrast. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (see note)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Add red bean paste, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Bean and Black Sesame Swirl Cake
This Asian-inspired dessert combines the natural sweetness of red beans with the nutty flavor of black sesame, creating a unique and delicious swirl cake. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and red beans.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in black sesame seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Red Bean Pancake Cake Stack
Sweet Red Bean Pancake Cake Stack Recipe
This recipe combines the comfort of pancakes with the sweetness of red bean paste, stacked into a towering cake perfect for any occasion. With its moist and fluffy texture, this sweet treat is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a non-stick skillet or griddle with butter or cooking spray.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Spoon 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, then spread red bean paste on top of each pancake.
7. Stack pancakes and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Korean Red Bean Bungeoppang Filling Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a popular Korean dessert, typically served during special occasions or as a sweet treat. The red bean filling adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to the soft cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (dried and reconstituted with water)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the red bean paste.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Bean and Chestnut Cream Cake
A moist and flavorful cake filled with the sweetness of red beans and the nutty flavor of chestnuts, topped with a creamy chestnut-infused whipped cream. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can red beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chestnuts, cooked and chopped
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in red beans and chestnuts.
5. Beat eggs and vanilla extract; add to dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before topping with whipped cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Red Bean and Chocolate Marble Cake
Combine the sweetness of red bean paste with the richness of chocolate in this unique and delicious cake. Perfect for a special treat or dessert gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (or azuki bean paste)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and red bean paste until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler; let cool slightly.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan; spoon melted chocolate on top, creating a marbled effect.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Savoury Red Bean and Scallion Cornbread Cake
A twist on traditional cornbread, this moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of red beans with the pungency of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup red beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 scallions, chopped (white and green parts)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and mashed red beans. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add chopped scallions to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Bean and Yogurt Sponge Cake with Honey Glaze
Elevate your snack game with this moist and flavorful cake infused with the nutty sweetness of red beans and the tanginess of yogurt, topped with a drizzle of golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (mashed)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Honey, for glazing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together red bean paste, yogurt, eggs, and salt until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before glazing with honey.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Sugar Red Bean Steamed Pudding Cake
This Brown Sugar Red Bean Steamed Pudding Cake is a unique dessert that combines the natural sweetness of red beans with the richness of brown sugar. Perfect for a warm and comforting treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red bean paste
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine red bean paste, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 6-inch round cake pan or ramekin.
5. Place the cake pan in the steamer basket and steam for 35-40 minutes over boiling water.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Bean and Almond Flourless Cake
Moist and flavorful, this cake is a unique twist on traditional flour-based treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red beans (such as kidney or pinto)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked red beans, eggs, almond butter, sugar, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add baking powder, almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Bean and Taro Swirl Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake combines the nutty sweetness of red bean with the subtle earthiness of taro, swirled through a rich buttery batter. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) red bean paste
– 1/4 cup (30g) cooked and mashed taro
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, red bean paste, taro, vanilla extract, and baking powder.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and swirl through with a knife or spatula to create marbled design.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Red Bean and Green Tea Chiffon Cake with Whipped Cream
This Red Bean and Green Tea Chiffon Cake with Whipped Cream is a delightful combination of Asian flavors and classic baking techniques. With the subtle sweetness of red bean paste and the refreshing essence of green tea, this cake is perfect for adventurous bakers looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons red bean paste
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Whipped cream and red bean paste for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, oil, red bean paste, matcha powder, and baking powder.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow the cake to cool before topping with whipped cream and red bean paste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet world of red beans in these 20 mouthwatering cake recipes! From traditional Chinese red bean paste cake to Japanese dorayaki with a sweet filling, and even gluten-free and vegan options, this collection has something for every dessert lover. Try your hand at making a steamed sponge cake or a layered cake with coconut milk. Or, indulge in a rich brown sugar pudding cake or a decadent chocolate marble cake. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a red bean cake recipe to satisfy them.