Cat Tangyuan Recipe: Cute Homemade Sweet Rice Dumplings

Looking for a fun, adorable twist on traditional Chinese tangyuan? This Cat Tangyuan recipe (貓咪湯圓) is perfect! These sweet glutinous rice dumplings are not only delicious but also shaped like tiny cats, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. With colorful dough and a sweet red bean filling, you’ll have a delightful treat that’s as cute as it is tasty.

Ingredients

• 100g glutinous rice flour

• 70g boiling water

• 60g homemade red bean paste

• Optional: fruit or vegetable powder for coloring

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix the glutinous rice flour with boiling water until it forms a smooth, elastic dough. Wrap it in cling film and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the dough to become soft and easy to shape.

2. Add Color

Divide the dough into small portions. Knead in fruit or vegetable powders gradually until you get your desired colors. This step allows you to make different “cat” designs and create a rainbow of tangyuan!

3. Shape the Tangyuan

• Divide the dough into 20g portions.

• Flatten each piece and place a 10g ball of frozen red bean paste inside.

• Wrap the dough around the filling and seal it carefully.

4. Make Cat Faces

Use your fingers or small tools to create cat ears, paws, and faces. Lightly wet the dough with water to help pieces stick together. This is the fun part where your creativity shines!

5. Cook the Tangyuan

Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add your cat tangyuan. Cook over medium-low heat. When the dumplings float to the surface, they are ready. Carefully remove and serve!

6. Serve & Enjoy

Serve your cat tangyuan in a warm sweet soup or enjoy them on their own. They’re perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply a fun weekend treat.

Tips for Perfect Cat Tangyuan

• Small additions: Add tiny chocolate chips or black sesame seeds for eyes.

• Color balance: Add coloring gradually; a little goes a long way.

• Storage: Uncooked tangyuan can be frozen on a tray, then transferred to a bag for later cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this recipe delicious and fun, but it also brings a little joy to your kitchen. Kids love helping shape the cats, and the end result is irresistibly cute. Plus, red bean paste provides a naturally sweet and satisfying filling without being too heavy.