Jiangsu Thousand-Layer Oil Cake: Sweet Layers of Jiangnan

1. Origin & History of Jiangsu Thousand-Layer Oil Cake

The Jiangsu Thousand-Layer Oil Cake dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties in Jiangnan.
It began as a homemade snack and a festive treat shared with families.
Chefs in Suzhou and Yangzhou perfected it, passing it down for over 300 years.
This layered pastry blends Jiangnan’s elegance and rustic simplicity.

2. Cultural Meaning & Jiangnan Tradition

To locals, this Jiangsu dessert is more than breakfast or tea.
It represents family reunion, care, and hospitality.
During Spring Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, serving the cake means joy and good fortune.
It shows Jiangnan people’s refined lifestyle and appreciation for detail.

3. Key Ingredients for This Layered Pastry

Use premium all-purpose flour and fresh lard — the secret to soft, flaky layers.
Add sugar, water, and a bit of yeast, then knead until smooth.
Some regions include sesame or osmanthus for added aroma.
These touches make this Jiangsu pastry uniquely fragrant and rich.

4. Crafting Process & Traditional Skills

The process is delicate and precise.
Roll the dough into thin sheets, spread lard evenly, and fold it repeatedly.
Let it rest and ferment before steaming for 20–30 minutes.
When done, the multi-layer steamed cake looks golden and puffy.
Each step requires patience and precision.

5. Flavor & Texture Experience

What makes this layered oil cake unforgettable is its texture.
Soft, sweet, and rich — each layer melts gently on your tongue.
It’s sweet but not greasy, leaving a warm, fragrant aftertaste.
It feels like tasting a piece of floating cloud from Jiangnan.

6. How to Eat It (Serving Tips)

Enjoy it hot by peeling layer after layer.
Eat it plain, or pair with green tea or soy milk.
In Jiangsu, it’s a classic morning dim sum.
Locals love the simple comfort of sweet and chewy layers.

7. Where to Taste the Authentic Cake

If you’re in Jiangsu, visit these famous places:

• Suzhou: Songhe Lou (historic restaurant)
• Yangzhou: Fuchun Tea House (classic dim sum)
• Nanjing: Liu Changxing Noodle Shop (local favorite)

Prices range from ¥10 to ¥30 per piece.
Ask for “a portion of Thousand-Layer Oil Cake.”
Freshly steamed cakes taste best right from the bamboo basket.

8. Traveler Tips & English Name

Its English name is “Jiangsu Thousand-Layer Oil Cake.”
Best enjoyed within ten minutes after steaming for full flavor.
If taking it home, vacuum-seal it, but fresh is always better.
This Chinese layered cake is truly worth the try.

9. Easy Home Version (Simplified Recipe)

Try making your own thousand-layer dim sum at home.
Use store-bought dough, replace lard with melted butter.
Fold the dough several times and steam for 15–20 minutes.
Sprinkle sugar and sesame on top.
It’s simple yet captures the taste of Jiangnan in your kitchen.

10. Why You Should Try It

This isn’t just a snack — it’s a cultural journey through Jiangnan.
Add Jiangsu Thousand-Layer Oil Cake to your must-try food list.
Let each soft, sweet layer bring you a taste of water towns.
Discover the leisure, warmth, and tradition behind every bite.