Taiwanese Pineapple Suncake

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 80g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar 80g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 egg yolk 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp cold water 1 tbsp cold water
• For the pineapple filling: For the pineapple filling:
• 500g (2 cups) fresh pineapple, finely chopped 500g (2 cups) fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp lemon juice

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and cold water. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and gently knead until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a saucepan, combine the chopped pineapple, granulated sugar, and lemon juice for the filling. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a small disc.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the cooled pineapple filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a pleated pattern.
6. 6.
   Place the filled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the Suncakes cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pineapple — Make sure to finely chop the fresh pineapple for a smoother filling texture.
• Butter — Use cold butter and cube it before incorporating it into the crust mixture. This will help create a flaky texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced pineapple flavor, you can add a small amount of pineapple extract to the filling.
• If you prefer a sweeter crust, you can sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of the Suncakes before baking.
• Serve the Suncakes warm for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese Pineapple Suncakes as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They are perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a dessert.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Suncakes on a platter, showcasing their golden brown crust and pleated pattern. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.