Arhat Cakes

Arhat Cakes

　　Arhat Cakes

　　Arhat Cakes, a traditional delicacy from Gaotang, are a type of pastry resembling mooncakes but without filling. Their many layers give them their name, inspired by the image of stacked arhats. They were served as tribute cakes during the Qing Dynasty. These cakes are known for being soft, flaky, with distinct layers, offering a crispy, sweet flavor that is rich yet not greasy. The ingredients are strictly selected, and the craftsmanship is intricate and refined, giving them a strong traditional character. The main ingredients used in making them include flour, pork lard, sesame oil or peanut oil, and powdered sugar, with additional flavorings such as essence, date paste, hawthorn paste, and rose jam. In the preparation, flour and vegetable oil are first mixed to form the outer dough, while flour, pork lard, sugar, and flavorings are combined to make the flaky inner layer. The outer dough is then wrapped around the inner layer, rolled and folded multiple times using a rolling pin, and then cut into pieces as needed. Each piece is rolled into a circle, about 7 cm in diameter and 1.5 cm thick, before being baked until golden yellow and ready to serve.