As I rummaged through my pantry, my hands brushed against bags of flour and spices, and a spark of inspiration ignited. It was time to explore the delightful world of Fat Goh, or Chinese Prosperity Cake, a creamy, fluffy white cake with a delightful twist. Picture this: when I first tried a slice at a friend’s celebration, my taste buds danced with joy, instantly captivated by its perfect sweetness and subtle hints of ginger and cardamom.

What makes this cake so special is not just its exquisite flavor but also its symbolism in Chinese culture—it’s a treat of good fortune, meant to bring joy and prosperity. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip this up at home! With just a handful of simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can impress your family and friends with your newfound baking skills. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful treat that’s bound to brighten your day and add a touch of sweetness to any occasion!

Why is Fat Goh the perfect cake?

Fluffy texture: This cake is incredibly light and airy, making each bite a delightful experience.

Unique flavors: Infused with ground ginger and cardamom, it bursts with aromatic warmth that goes beyond your average cake.

Cultural significance: Perfect for celebrations, this cake symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, adding meaning to your gatherings.

Easy to make: You don’t need a baking degree to master this recipe; it’s accessible for beginners and home cooks alike.

Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a weekend treat, this cake suits every event, impressing guests and family alike!

Fat Goh Ingredients

Dive into the delightful world of Fat Goh with these simple ingredients that create a truly delicious cake.

For the Cake Batter
• Betty Crocker white cake mix – This base offers ease of baking without compromising on flavor.
• All-purpose or cake flour – Enhances the texture, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Glutinous rice flour – Adds that signature chewy quality and hints of tradition.
• Ground ginger – Infuses warmth and a subtle zing into your Fat Goh.
• Ground cardamom – Provides a unique aromatic spice that elevates the flavor profile.
• Large egg – Acts as a binder, helping the cake rise beautifully.
• Water – Key for hydration; ensures the batter is not too thick.
• Dark brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor with a touch of caramel sweetness.
• Sunflower, coconut, or vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Vanilla extract – A classic flavor enhancer that rounds out the taste perfectly.

How to Make Fat Goh

Preheat your oven: Set the oven to the temperature specified on your cake mix instructions. This is essential for achieving a perfectly baked Fat Goh!
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the Betty Crocker white cake mix, all-purpose flour, glutinous rice flour, ground ginger, and ground cardamom. This blend will create a wonderful base for your cake.
Combine wet ingredients: Add the large egg, water, dark brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract to your dry mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth—about 2 minutes will do!
Prepare the pan: Pour your batter into a greased cake pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This ensures a uniform rise as it bakes.
Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake according to the cake mix instructions. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your Fat Goh is ready!

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Fat Goh cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dry ingredients (cake mix, flours, and spices) in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days—this way, all you need to do is add the wet ingredients when you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can assemble the wet ingredients in a separate bowl and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavors. When it’s time to enjoy your cake, simply mix everything together, pour into your pan, and bake as instructed. With this prep method, your Fat Goh will be just as delicious, allowing you to savor sweet moments with family and friends without the last-minute rush!

Tips for the Best Fat Goh

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially baking mix and spices, are fresh for optimal flavor and texture in your Fat Goh.

• Proper Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven correctly. An oven that’s too hot or too cool can lead to uneven baking and affect your cake’s fluffiness.

• Mixing Technique: Don’t over-mix your batter; this can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for that light and airy texture.

• Check Doneness Wisely: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes but check frequently to prevent overbaking.

• Cooling Properly: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and moisture.

What to Serve with Fat Goh?

Elevate your Fat Goh experience with these delightful pairings that will inspire flavorful celebrations.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant side that balances the cake’s sweetness with its subtle, nutty flavor. Perfect as a contrasting element in a meal.
Coconut Custard: This rich and creamy addition enhances the tropical notes of the cake, creating a beautifully indulgent dessert pairing.
Fresh Berries: Bright and tart, the juiciness of berries complements the cake’s soft texture while adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
Chai Tea: Pair your slice of Fat Goh with a warm cup of chai, its spicy notes harmonizing perfectly with the ginger and cardamom in the cake.
Mango Sorbet: This fruity, icy treat brings a refreshing twist, cutting through the cake’s richness and enhancing your dessert experience.
Sesame Seed Cookies: Crunchy with a touch of sweetness, these cookies provide a lovely texture contrast while nodding to Asian culinary traditions.
Honey-Drizzled Greek Yogurt: Serving this on the side adds a creamy, tangy element that beautifully offsets the sweetness of the cake.
Sweet Red Bean Paste: Commonly found in Asian desserts, this subtly sweet paste can be served as a topping, adding unique flavor and tradition.

These pairings not only complement your Fat Goh but also create a comforting and inviting meal spread for family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Fat Goh

Fridge: Keep leftover Fat Goh in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and delicious flavors.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer your slices to the fridge overnight to thaw. For a quick treat, microwave briefly for a warm cake experience.

Reheating: Enjoy warm slices by placing them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, ensuring they stay delightful and fluffy.

Fat Goh Serving Suggestions

Pair your delightful Fat Goh with these tasty options for a wonderful experience that complements its fluffy sweetness!

Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai complements the aromatic ginger and cardamom perfectly. It’s comforting and soothing, making each bite of cake even more enjoyable.
Fresh Fruits: Serve slices of juicy berries or tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a refreshing contrast. The sweetness of the fruits enhances the flavors and adds a vibrant touch to your plate.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a heavenly creaminess that pairs beautifully with the cake’s fluffy texture. You can even flavor it with vanilla or a hint of citrus for a delightful twist.
Coconut Cream: A drizzle of coconut cream over your Fat Goh brings in a tropical flair. Its subtle sweetness and creamy consistency match the cake’s moisture, creating a lovely balance.
Ice Cream: For a heavenly dessert duet, serve your Fat Goh warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The melting ice cream makes for an indulgent experience that everyone will love!
Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts on top for added texture and crunch. Their nutty aroma and flavor will elevate this already delightful cake to new heights.
Jasmine Tea: For a light and refreshing contrast, enjoy your Fat Goh with a cup of jasmine tea. The floral notes harmonize beautifully with the spices in the cake.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the slices for a rich, decadent addition. The sweetness of the caramel pairs perfectly with the cake’s flavors, offering a luxurious finish.

Fat Goh Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix is best for Fat Goh?
Absolutely, I recommend using a quality Betty Crocker white cake mix for the best results! This particular mix provides ease without sacrificing flavor, creating the fluffy texture that Fat Goh is known for.

How should I store leftover Fat Goh?
Keep leftover Fat Goh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and keeps the flavors fresh. If you find you have more cake than you can eat, don’t worry; you can freeze it too!

Can I freeze Fat Goh? How?
Certainly! To freeze your Fat Goh, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy the cake at your leisure for up to 2 months. Remember, if you want to enjoy it warm, you can microwave a slice briefly after thawing!

What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your Fat Goh doesn’t rise well, it could be due to a few reasons. Firstly, ensure your baking powder (if using any) is fresh, as expired leavening agents can impact the rise. Additionally, check your mixing technique; over-mixing can lead to a denser cake. Aim for a light hand when combining ingredients for that airy texture!

Is Fat Goh suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions?
It’s vital to consider allergies or dietary restrictions! With this recipe, it contains gluten and eggs, which may not suit everyone. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you can explore gluten-free cake mixes combined with appropriate substitutes for the other ingredients. As always, tailor your ingredients based on your guests’ dietary needs to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Fat Goh?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding zest from lemons or oranges for a refreshing twist! A sprinkle of additional spices or a hint of coconut can also elevate your Fat Goh experience. A personalized touch makes it uniquely yours!