Umami Guru › Recipes

Xingren bing (杏仁饼)

China

By · Published · Updated

Xingren bing Chinese almond pancakes anime illustration in Studio Ghibli style

Crispy cookies with almond, featuring a delicate nutty aroma. Quick and simple to make, perfect for tea time.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Illustration of a Sinjen bin preparation step, Chinese cuisine, Ghibli style

    In a large bowl combine wheat flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix with a fork until homogeneous.

  2. Anime-style illustration of a step in making Sinjen bin, Chinese cuisine

    Add the neutral cooking oil and stir with a fork until no dry flour remains.

  3. Chinese Xianren Bin dough illustration, anime-inspired, Studio Ghibli watercolor style

    Form the dough by gathering all clumps together. The dough may crumble easily but should have a uniform texture.

  4. Chinese cuisine, Xinjian bin, dough preparation, anime illustration

    Using a kitchen scale, divide the dough into 40 portions, each weighing about 15 g.

  5. Chinese cuisine, Xianren bing, dough shaping, anime-style illustration

    Shape each portion into a ball, place it on your palm and press half an almond into the dough.

  6. Illustration of preparing Xinjian bin, a Chinese pastry, in a whimsical anime watercolor style

    Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving small gaps.

  7. Xinjian bun cooking step, Chinese pastry, Ghibli-style illustration

    If desired, whisk the egg yolk with ½ teaspoon of water and brush the cookies with it.

  8. Illustration of baking Xinjian Bing, Chinese flatbread, anime-inspired style

    Put the sheet into a preheated oven at 180°C (or 160°C with convection) and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.

  9. Chinese dessert Xinren bing, a Ghibli‑inspired illustration of a cooking step

    Cool the cookies on a rack until completely cooled, then store in an airtight container.

FAQ

What is Xingren Bing (杏仁饼)?

Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) are traditional Chinese almond cookies, known for their crispy texture and delicate nutty aroma, often enjoyed with tea.

Can I make Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) without almond flour?

While almond flour is key to the authentic texture and flavor of Xingren Bing, you can try finely ground blanched almonds as a substitute, though the result may vary slightly.

How long do Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) can stay fresh for up to one week.

Is Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) suitable for a Ghibli-themed party?

Absolutely! Xingren Bing (杏仁饼) fit perfectly into a Ghibli-themed party, offering an authentic taste of East Asian culture and a delightful treat for guests.

Where can I find the ingredients for Xingren Bing (杏仁饼)?

Most ingredients like wheat flour, sugar, and cooking oil are available at regular supermarkets. Almond flour can be found in baking aisles or specialty stores, and whole almonds are widely available.