The Nián gāo or Tikoy recipe is easier than you think!
Tikoy, also known as nian gao or Chinese New Year cake, is a traditional delicacy often enjoyed during Lunar New Year celebrations, symbolizing prosperity, unity, and the promise of a sweeter year ahead. To make Tikoy, you’ll need glutinous rice flour, sugar, water, and optionally, coconut milk for added richness.
Begin by combining the glutinous rice flour and sugar in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are well-blended. Gradually add water (or coconut milk) while stirring continuously to form a smooth, lump-free batter. Once the mixture reaches a thick, pourable consistency, pour it into a greased cake pan or mold. Steam the mixture for about 40 to 45 minutes or until it becomes firm and translucent. After steaming, allow the Tikoy to cool completely before slicing it into pieces.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can coat the slices with beaten egg and pan-fry them until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the chewy, sticky interior. Tikoy is not only a delicious treat but also a meaningful dish that brings families together, embodying the spirit of tradition and hope for the future.
This rice recipe made from glutinous rice flour is so delicious, sticky, and sweet. You can simply make this at home using our quick and easy method. There’s no need to buy these lucky and prosperous Chinese New Year’s centerpiece cakes. Try to make this straightforward Nián gāo recipe.
Please feel free to browse our recipe archive for more recipes. Thank you for visiting us.
Visit us on YouTube: Yummy Food PH

Tikoy Recipe
Description
The Nián gāo or Tikoy recipe is easier than you think! It’s very easy to prepare. This rice cake made from glutinous rice flour is so delicious, sticky, and sweet. You can simply make this tikoy at home using our quick and easy method. There's no need to buy these lucky and prosperous Chinese New Year's centerpiece cakes. Try to make this straightforward tikoy recipe.
Ingredients
Instructions
Put the glutinous rice flour in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, evaporated milk, and water. Add a teaspoon of vanilla if desired, then mix well.
In a bowl with glutinous rice flour, pour in the sugar mixture, then mix until every ingredient is well distributed.
Note: Add grated cheddar cheese if desired.Prepare a tikoy mold; use a rectangular or round cake pan. Grease them to prevent sticking.
Transfer the glutinous rice flour mixture into the tikoy mold, then top with sesame seeds if desired.
Cover the mold with aluminum foil to avoid water dripping.
Steam for 40 to 45 minutes or until the inserted toothpick in the middle comes out clean and feels sticky.
Remove the tikoy and let it cool down completely.
Refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight to let it set and harden a bit.
Run a knife at the edges of the mold, dislodge the tikoy, and gently transfer it to a chopping board.
Make thin slices approximately a quarter-inch thick and dip into the beaten egg mixture.
Cook according to your preferences. It can be fried, re-steamed, or microwaved. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 743kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.7g6%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 12mg4%
- Sodium 112mg5%
- Potassium 149mg5%
- Protein 12.6g26%
- Calcium 130 mg
- Iron 4 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.