Description
Chinese Brown Sugar Bread, also known as Guo Kui, is a traditional sweet flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and filled with a rich, caramelized brown sugar center. This vegan snack combines a simple dough with a luscious sugar filling, pan-fried to golden perfection, making it an irresistible treat perfect for dessert or anytime cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more for cooking)
Filling
- ½ cup Chinese brown sugar (or dark muscovado sugar)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the filling: While the dough rests, combine the Chinese brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of flour to help prevent the sugar from leaking during cooking.
- Shape the breads: Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a small disk.
- Fill the dough: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the brown sugar mixture into the center of each disk. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the sugar inside, then gently flatten the filled dough into a pancake about 4–5 inches in diameter.
- Cook the breads: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of vegetable oil. Place the pancakes seam-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed, gently pressing with a spatula as they cook to ensure even browning.
- Finish and serve: Once both sides are browned and the sugar inside has melted, sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Serve the breads warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the sugar filling is fully sealed inside the dough to prevent leakage during cooking.
- If Chinese brown sugar is unavailable, substitute with muscovado sugar or dark brown sugar for a similar taste and texture.
- Guo Kui are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently in a pan or oven for later consumption.
