The most representative souvenir in Taiwan is undoubtedly pineapple cakes. Wrapped in a flaky outer layer with a soft and sweet filling, they not only satisfy the taste buds of consumers but are also considered an ideal choice for both personal consumption and gifting, as their name implies good luck.
If you are trying pineapple cakes for the first time, you may be surprised and confused why they are called pineapple cakes when there has not only pineapple in them.
This small pastry has an interesting evolutionary history. In the early days, Taiwanese farmers would cultivate white gourd during the fallow period of rice paddies. Due to the abundant yield, low cost, and easy availability of white gourd, various white gourd food processing products emerged. At that time, the cost of cultivating pineapples was high, and the taste of the varieties was sour with coarse fibers. Using 100% pineapple as a filling did not result in a tasty treat. As a solution, pastry chefs started making pineapple cakes with either entirely white gourd filling or a mixture of white gourd and pineapple, giving rise to pineapple cakes without (or almost without) actual pineapple.
However, with the improvement of pineapple varieties, addressing the issues of excessive acidity and coarse fibers, many pastry brands now offer pineapple cakes with 100% pineapple filling, providing consumers with more choices.
Here are some well-known pineapple cake brands in Taiwan and their filling features:
1.Chia Te ( 佳德 ):
With a history of over 50 years, Chia Te's classic pineapple cake has a filling of pineapple and white gourd. The lusciously creamycrust, and the sweetness of the filling is just right. In addition to the classic flavor, the store also offers special pineapple cake varieties such as cranberry, Longan, strawberry, and cantaloupe. Those who enjoy trying new flavors should not miss out.
2. SunnyHills ( 微熱山丘 ):
Established in 2008, SunnyHills's pineapple cake is made with 100% pure pineapple, using Taiwanese pineapple and natural ingredients. The filling is slightly sour, and pineapple fibers are visible, providing an authentic pineapple flavor. The packaging follows a simple and innovative style, and the shape is different from traditional pineapple cakes, being rectangular. If you want to experience the original taste of pineapple, this is a must-try.
3. Pan's Cake ( 小潘 ) :
Originally a small bakery in New Taipei City ,Pan's Cake gained fame for its star product, pineapple cakes. Their pineapple cake features the traditional pineapple and white gourd filling, leaning towards a sweeter taste with a moist outer layer. However, their Phoenix Cake, which wraps pineapple, white gourd, and salted egg yolk in the same flaky pastry, is highly recommended and addictive.
4. Yu Jan Shin ( 裕珍馨 ) :
Established in 1966, the old shop Yu Jan Shin not only offers pineapple cakes but also a variety of traditional Taiwanese pastries. Innovating despite being an old shop, their pineapple cakes incorporate walnuts, adding richness to the texture. They also sell the Golden Award Fibrous Pineapple Cake, made with 100% pure pineapple filling, catering to both preferences.
5.Taipei Leechi ( 犁記 ) :
Another challenging choice is Taipei Leechi. They offer both traditional pineapple cakes with pineapple and white gourd filling and 100% pure pineapple cakes called gourmet pineapple cakes. Additionally, they have special flavors like cranberry and orange pineapple cakes. Founded in 1894, Taipei Leechi is a century-old shop that continues to be loved by people. Their mooncakes for the Mid-Autumn Festival are also renowned. If you have the opportunity to visit Taiwan, be sure to pay them a visit.
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