Nian gao
A Chinese sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice flour and sugar, steamed and eaten during the Lunar New Year.
- Cakes, cookies, pastries and baked goods
- People's Republic of China
Also called: Chinese New Year's cake, New Year cake, bánh tổ, tinn-kué, tiⁿ-koé
The name sounds like the words for higher each year, so eating nian gao is linked with progress and good fortune. A sweet version is made by mixing glutinous rice flour with brown sugar and water, steaming it until firm and chewy, and letting it cool. It is often sliced and pan-fried, sometimes dipped in egg first.
Regional styles vary widely. Some are savory and stir-fried with vegetables. Similar cakes are made in Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia and other parts of Asia.
Bake it at VanillaGoods
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RecipeNian Gao Yam and Sweet Potato Fritters1 hr 18 min · Makes 18 pieces -
RecipeNian Gao (Chinese New Year Rice Cake)4 hr 15 min · Makes 16 slices
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Sources
Written by VanillaGoods in our own words from these sources. Last reviewed October 15, 2026.
- Chinese New Year Cake, University of Pennsylvania (Penn Facilities / dining handout)