Homemade purple sweet potato glutinous rice cakes,

These homemade purple sweet potato glutinous rice cakes are soft, chewy, and naturally colorful. With the subtle sweetness of purple sweet potatoes and the delightful texture of glutinous rice, they make a wonderful snack or dessert that is both eye-catching and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple yet impressive, combining minimal ingredients into a delightful treat. You’ll love the vibrant purple color, the naturally sweet flavor, and the chewy texture of these glutinous rice cakes. They are perfect for a healthy snack, a festive dessert, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. Plus, they are gluten-free and can be customized with various fillings or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Purple sweet potatoes
• Glutinous rice flour
• Sugar
• Water
• Vegetable oil (for cooking)

Directions

1. Peel and cut the purple sweet potatoes into chunks. Steam them until soft, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash the steamed sweet potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water to form a soft, pliable dough.
4. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into small discs or balls.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
6. Place the cakes onto the pan and cook until both sides are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 10-12 rice cakes and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Add a filling: Insert sweetened red bean paste or black sesame paste into the center before shaping.
• Flavor the dough: Mix a little coconut milk into the dough for extra richness.
• Sweeten further: Dust the finished cakes with powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend.
• Bake instead of pan-fry: For a healthier option, bake the rice cakes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover purple sweet potato glutinous rice cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds until warm or pan-fry briefly to restore their crispy edges.

FAQs

What does glutinous rice flour do in this recipe?

Glutinous rice flour provides the chewy texture that makes these rice cakes so delightful.

Can I use regular sweet potatoes instead of purple ones?

Yes, regular sweet potatoes can be used, but the color will differ.

Are these rice cakes gluten-free?

Yes, glutinous rice flour is naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze purple sweet potato glutinous rice cakes?

Yes, freeze them after cooking. Reheat by steaming or microwaving when ready to eat.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can use any neutral oil such as canola or grapeseed oil.

Why is my dough too sticky?

Too much water may have been added. Add a little more glutinous rice flour to adjust the consistency.

Why is my dough cracking?

The dough might be too dry. Add a little water and knead until smooth.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, but store it well-wrapped in the refrigerator and use it within a day.

How can I make the cakes sweeter?

Increase the sugar in the dough or add a sweet filling.

What can I serve with these rice cakes?

They pair well with green tea or a light fruit salad.

Conclusion

Homemade purple sweet potato glutinous rice cakes are a beautiful and delicious treat that is surprisingly easy to make. Their unique texture and natural sweetness make them a standout snack or dessert. Whether enjoyed plain, filled, or slightly sweetened, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

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