Baked Gau: Irresistibly Chewy Chinese Sweet Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When my neighbor surprised me with a batch of freshly baked Gau, I was instantly transported to my childhood. The unique aroma wafting through her kitchen was simply enchanting, reminiscent of the joyful Lunar New Year celebrations. This delightful traditional Chinese sweet resembles a sticky mochi square, and trust me, once you take that first chewy bite, you ll understand why it s a beloved favorite!

This baked version offers an incredibly satisfying alternative to its steamed counterpart, making it a versatile treat perfect for any occasion. Whether it s a cozy family gathering or a simple afternoon snack, each slice of Baked Gau promises a light sweetness that effortlessly complements your favorite cup of tea. Best of all, this gluten-free delight is easy to whip up at home, allowing you to enjoy a slice of tradition anytime you please. Ready to bring the warmth and joy of this delightful treat to your kitchen? Let s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why is Baked Gau a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: This traditional Chinese sweet offers a delightful twist on the classic steamed version, giving you a chewy, baked treat that s simply irresistible.

Gluten-Free Goodness: Made from sweet rice flour, it s perfect for gluten-sensitive friends and family.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal recipe for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

Versatile Delight: Serve it warm or at room temperature, it pairs beautifully with tea, and is perfect for any occasion, ensuring your guests are always impressed!

Cultural Connection: Enjoying Baked Gau during celebrations entails warm traditions and sweet memories. For more delightful recipes, check out this handy guide on gluten-free desserts!

Baked Gau Ingredients

For the Batter
Sweet Rice Flour Provides structure and texture; it s essential for that authentic chewy quality of the cake.
Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness; avoid using raw or turbinado sugars to maintain the desired texture.
Brown Sugar Contributes depth of sweetness; note that using less sugar will achieve a well-balanced flavor.
Coconut Milk Introduces rich flavor and moisture; use full-fat coconut milk for best results.
Water Hydrates the mixture; adjust as necessary to achieve the right consistency.

Optional Add-Ins
Shredded Coconut Mix it in for added texture and a tropical twist.
Sesame Seeds Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor.

Baked Gau is a delightful treat, and with these ingredients, you re a step closer to enjoying this traditional favorite!

How to Make Baked Gau

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until well blended. This creates a sweet base for your gau.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour in the coconut milk and water, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should have a thick consistency, similar to pancake batter.

3. Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that the Gau bakes evenly and doesn t stick to the sides.

4. Bake: Place the dish in an oven preheated to 350 °F and bake for 30-35 minutes. You ll know it s done when the gau is firm and doesn t jiggle when shaken.

5. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cutting into squares. This resting time allows the texture to set properly for clean cuts.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Baked Gau

Ingredient Quality: Always use high-quality sweet rice flour for the best chewy texture in your Baked Gau.

Avoid Clumping: Make sure to whisk dry and wet ingredients thoroughly to prevent clumps in the batter, leading to an uneven texture.

Cooling Time: Don t skip the cooling period before cutting; letting it rest helps maintain a clean edge for your squares.

Storage Insight: Store your Baked Gau in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.

Check for Doneness: Use the jiggle test; the baked gau should be firm without any wobble before removing it from the oven to ensure the perfect consistency.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Gau

Room Temperature: Keep your Baked Gau in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate your Baked Gau for longer freshness, but it s best used within a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for optimal texture.

Freezer: Baked Gau can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: For the best experience, reheat frozen pieces in the microwave or oven until warmed through this restores that delightful chewy texture!

What to Serve with Baked Gau?

Enhancing your dining experience is as easy as pairing this sweet treat with delightful sides and beverages.

• Jasmine Tea: The floral notes of jasmine tea beautifully counterbalance the sweet, chewy texture of the Baked Gau, creating a warm harmony.
• Mango Sticky Rice: For a dessert duo, combine the comforting chewy texture of Baked Gau with sweet and creamy mango sticky rice for a tropical flair. The fresh mango elevates the flavors, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Coconut Ice Cream: The rich, creamy flavor of coconut ice cream offers a luscious complement to the lighter, chewy Baked Gau, making every bite even more indulgent.
• Sesame Candy: Crunchy sesame candy provides a fun textural contrast to the softness of the Baked Gau. Their nutty flavor enhances the overall taste experience perfect as a side treat!
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad drizzled with honey can provide a refreshing burst of sweetness and a contrast of colors, making your plate visually appealing and delicious.
• Sweetened Coconut Milk: Drizzling warm, sweetened coconut milk over your Baked Gau adds an extra layer of richness and moisture that enhances that delightful chewiness.
• Chrysanthemum Tea: For a fragrant drink option, chrysanthemum tea s soothing qualities and slight sweetness make it a delightful pairing, perfect for any time of the day.
• Red Bean Paste: Introducing a small serving of smooth, sweet red bean paste alongside the Baked Gau brings in an authentic flavor that complements this traditional treat beautifully.

Baked Gau Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these fun and creative twists on the classic Baked Gau recipe to suit your taste buds!

• Almond Milk: Swap coconut milk with almond milk for a nutty flavor and a lighter texture. This subtle change brings a delightful surprise to each bite.

• Add Shredded Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut for an extra chewy texture and tropical flair. Each slice will transport you to a sunny paradise!

• Sesame Seed Topping: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for added crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.

• Chocolate Chips: For a delightful twist, fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. This variation transforms your Baked Gau into a decadent dessert that kids will love!

• Mango Purée: Add a layer of mango purée in the middle for a fruity surprise. This vibrant addition gives each slice a burst of tropical sweetness.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The contrasting sweetness and spice create a playful dance of flavors.

• Matcha Flavors: Mix in matcha powder to infuse a gentle earthy flavor and a gorgeous green hue. This variation adds a touch of sophistication to your Gau.

• Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist during fall. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg will envelop you in cozy delight!

These variations not only keep the classic Baked Gau exciting but also allow you to share different flavors with friends and family. Dive into your pantry and get creative!

Make Ahead Options

Baked Gau is an excellent choice for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the sweet rice flour, sugars, coconut milk, and water. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. On the day you plan to enjoy this sweet treat, simply pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake as instructed. This way, you ll have delicious, chewy Baked Gau ready to delight your family with minimal effort. Remember, for optimal texture, let it cool completely before slicing!

Baked Gau Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet rice flour should I use?
Absolutely! Always opt for high-quality sweet rice flour, commonly labeled as glutinous rice flour. This flour is essential for achieving that authentic chewy texture in your Baked Gau, so avoid substitutions like regular flour for the best results.

How should I store Baked Gau?
Very important! To keep your Baked Gau fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but I recommend consuming it within a week for the best flavors. If you need it to last longer, consider freezing!

Can I freeze Baked Gau?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Baked Gau, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. This will protect them from freezer burn and keep them fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

I m concerned about my Baked Gau not setting properly. What should I check?
If your Baked Gau is not setting, make sure that you ve baked it long enough. The jiggle test is crucial: it should be firm without any wobble when shaken. If it still seems too soft, you might need to extend the baking time by a few minutes. Just remember to let it cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you re concerned about allergens, you can use almond milk instead of coconut milk for a nut-friendly option. Additionally, always ensure that the sweet rice flour you choose is gluten-free and check for any other ingredients that might not comply with your dietary preferences. If you re making this for pets, it s best to skip the sugars and stick to plain ingredients tailored for their consumption.