Are you looking for a new and exciting way to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than steaming cakes! This innovative cooking method allows for the creation of moist, fluffy, and flavorful desserts that are perfect for any occasion. From birthdays to brunches, and from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties, steaming cakes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious steaming cake recipes that you can try at home. From classic sponge cakes to matcha green tea-infused treats, and from decadent chocolate mugs to refreshing lemon drizzles, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your creativity in the kitchen.
In our first installment, we’ll be highlighting some of the most popular steaming cake flavors, including classic vanilla, mocha coffee, and pumpkin spice. So grab your apron, preheat your steamer, and let’s get started!
Classic Steamed Sponge Cake
Steaming instead of baking gives this sponge cake a unique texture that’s both light and fluffy. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer to boiling point.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Sift in flour, salt, and baking powder. Whisk until just combined.
4. Pour batter into an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Place the cake pan in the steamer basket and steam for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from heat and let cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Steamed Cake
This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of a steamed cake, creating a unique and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add matcha powder to the egg mixture and whisk well.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in milk until just combined.
6. Pour batter into 2 (8-inch) round cake pans lined with parchment paper.
7. Steam cakes for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Pandan Coconut Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the sweetness of coconut with the fragrance of pandan leaves, all wrapped up in a tender, steam-cooked package. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pandan extract (or 1-2 pandan leaves)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add pandan extract (or crushed pandan leaves), coconut milk, egg, and oil. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into 6-8 small cups or molds.
5. Steam cakes for 15-20 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from steamer and let cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Steamed Mug Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent treat that requires only a few ingredients and a microwave. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this chocolate steamed mug cake is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. If using chocolate chips, stir them in at this point.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let stand for 30 seconds before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Steamed Lemon Drizzle Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and topped with a sweet drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan.
6. Steam for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Drizzle with your favorite glaze or frosting, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Carrot Walnut Cake
Moist and flavorful, this steamed carrot walnut cake is a delightful twist on traditional cakes. With the addition of aromatic carrots and crunchy walnuts, it’s perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket to high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts.
5. Pour mixture into greased 6-inch cake pan or ramekin.
6. Steam for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Steamed Blueberry Yogurt Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a warm weather dessert or snack. The combination of tangy yogurt, sweet blueberries, and hint of lemon zest creates a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yogurt until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries and lemon juice.
5. Pour batter into a greased 6-inch round cake pan or ramekin.
6. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Mocha Coffee Cake
Start your day off right with this moist and flavorful coffee cake infused with the rich flavors of mocha.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add brewed coffee and instant coffee powder to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared steamer basket.
7. Steam for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Pumpkin Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie spice, perfect for a cozy fall evening or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased 6-inch round cake pan or ramekin.
6. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Banana Bread Cake
This recipe is a twist on traditional banana bread, steaming the cake instead of baking it to create a moist and tender crumb. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 6-inch cake pan or ramekin.
4. Place the cake pan in a steamer basket with at least 2 inches of water below.
5. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Red Velvet Cake
Experience the unique texture and flavor of a steamed cake with this simple recipe. The addition of buttermilk and cocoa powder gives it a rich, velvety taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, buttermilk, egg, and red food coloring until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in the vegetable oil and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square cake pan or ramekins.
7. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Orange Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the warmth of orange zest and the crunch of toasted almonds, all without heating up your oven. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp orange zest
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in toasted almonds.
5. Grease a 6-inch steamer basket or heatproof cup with butter or cooking spray.
6. Pour batter into prepared basket or cup.
7. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Honey Lavender Cake
Experience the sweet union of honey and lavender in this unique and moist steamed cake. Perfect for a special occasion or a relaxing afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lavender buds, and honey until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch cake pan or individual ramekins.
6. Steam for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Apple Cinnamon Cake
A moist and flavorful cake infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples, all steamed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and diced apples. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch springform pan.
5. Steam for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from heat and let cool in the steamer for 10 minutes.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Steamed Gingerbread Cake
Enjoy a moist and flavorful gingerbread cake with this simple steaming method recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat, this cake is infused with the warmth of ginger and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon molasses
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket or a metal colander that fits your pot.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, egg, and molasses.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 6-inch cake pan or ramekin.
6. Place cake in the steamer basket and steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Sweet Potato Cake
Get ready for a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This Steamed Sweet Potato Cake is an innovative twist on traditional sweet potato recipes, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 6-inch round cake pan or ramekin.
5. Steam the cake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Steamed Tiramisu Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique Steamed Tiramisu Cake, combining the richness of coffee and mascarpone cream with a moist and fluffy texture.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) ladyfingers
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer with water to a boil.
2. In a large bowl, combine ladyfingers and granulated sugar. Dip each finger into the coffee mixture, creating a layered effect.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and mascarpone cheese until smooth.
4. Fold in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract.
5. Arrange the ladyfinger layers in the steamer basket.
6. Pour the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and steam for 12-15 minutes or until the cake is puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Earl Grey Tea Cake
This moist and flavorful tea cake is infused with the subtle nuances of earl grey tea, making it a perfect companion for your afternoon cuppa.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons earl grey tea leaves (loose-leaf or 1 tea bag)
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, earl grey tea leaves (or steeped tea bag), and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 6-inch springform pan.
6. Steam for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from steamer, let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of steaming cakes! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic sponge cake to decadent tiramisu, and from matcha green tea to pumpkin spice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive dessert for a special event, these steaming cakes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a variety of flavors and textures, you’ll be spoilt for choice. So go ahead, get baking, and let the steamy goodness fill the air!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
