Delicious Cocoa Flavored Steamed Bánh Thuẫn (Vietnamese Sponge Cake) Recipe

After sharing our pandan-flavored Bánh Thuẫn, we're excited to bring you another delightful variation: Cocoa Flavored Steamed Bánh Thuẫn! This recipe creates a beautiful two-tone cake with the warm yellow of vanilla and the rich brown of cocoa, offering a unique twist on the traditional Vietnamese sponge cake.

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Ingredients for Cocoa Flavored Steamed Bánh Thuẫn:

• 200g all-purpose flour
• 150g granulated sugar
• 1 chicken egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 200ml coconut milk (unsweetened fresh milk can be substituted)
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cocoa Flavored Steamed Bánh Thuẫn:

Follow these steps to create a beautiful and delicious two-toned Bánh Thuẫn:

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the main ingredients: 200g all-purpose flour, 150g granulated sugar, 1 chicken egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 200ml coconut milk.

Step 2: Beat the Batter Until Smooth

Using a handheld electric mixer (a whisk can be used, but it will require more time and effort), begin beating the mixture at a low speed. Gradually increase the speed and continue beating in one consistent direction. Beat for approximately 15-20 minutes until the batter becomes smooth, elastic, and flows in a thick ribbon. This extensive beating is crucial for the cake's texture.

Step 3: Divide and Flavor the Batter

Divide the prepared batter into two portions, maintaining an approximate ratio of 20:80 (smaller portion for cocoa, larger for vanilla). Add 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder to the smaller portion of batter and stir until well combined and evenly colored. Now you have two distinct batters: a plain (vanilla-colored) batter and a cocoa batter.

Step 4: Prepare Molds and Pour Batter

Lightly grease your steaming molds with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Pour the plain (vanilla-colored) batter into each mold, being careful not to fill it completely. Then, gently spoon the cocoa batter on top of the plain batter. For the classic Bánh Thuẫn "blooming" effect, use a sharp knife or skewer, dip it into the batter, and carefully make a cross-shaped cut on the surface of each cake.

Step 5: Steam the Bánh Thuẫn

Place a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, place the molds into a steamer basket and then set the steamer basket into the pot. Steam over medium-low heat for approximately 20 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once the Bánh Thuẫn are cooked through, carefully remove them from the steamer. Let them cool slightly in the molds before gently removing them.

Enjoy your delightful homemade Cocoa Flavored Steamed Bánh Thuẫn!