Description
Bánh Bò Hấp is a soft, chewy, and lightly sweet Vietnamese steamed cake known for its unique honeycomb-like texture. Made with rice flour, coconut milk, and yeast, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a perfect inclusive dessert option.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups rice flour
2 teaspoons tapioca starch
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3 tablespoons warm water (100–110°F)
1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, and salt.
- Pour in the coconut milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the activated yeast mixture to the batter and stir thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 2 to 3 hours.
- Prepare a steamer by boiling water and greasing small heatproof bowls or ramekins with oil.
- After fermentation, gently stir the batter and pour it into the prepared bowls, filling each about ¾ full.
- Place the bowls in the steamer, cover with a lid wrapped in a towel, and steam for 12–15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the cakes cool for about 5 minutes before unmolding.
- Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy the honeycomb texture.
Notes
Use pandan extract for a green, aromatic variation.
Palm sugar or coconut sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
Silicone cupcake molds work well for bite-sized versions.
Top with toasted sesame seeds or grated coconut for added texture.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat by steaming for 5 minutes or microwaving with a damp paper towel for 20–30 seconds.
Do not freeze; it affects the texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2–3 hours resting time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small cake
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
