Handesh – Bangladeshi Date Molasses Cakes
Discover Handesh, a traditional Bangladeshi dessert made with date molasses and rice flour. These soft, flavorful cakes, scented with cinnamon and cardamom, offer a unique texture and a rich taste that evokes South Asia.
🛒 Ingredients
6 servings
- 8.8 oz date molasses
- 1 2/3 cups warm water
- 1 1/2 cups rice flour
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Watch the original video
Watch on TikTokDirections
- 1
Pour the date molasses into a large bowl. Add 1 1/4 cups of warm water and whisk together. Adjust the amount of water based on the consistency of your molasses (use 1 1/4 to 1 1/3 cups if it is very syrupy).
- 2
Incorporate the flours and spices. Whisk for 3 to 5 minutes until you obtain a smooth batter. Check to ensure there are no lumps that would prevent rising. Cover and let rest for 2 hours.
- 3
After 2 hours, whisk the batter again until smooth, as the rice flour will have settled at the bottom. The consistency should resemble a thick pancake batter—pourable but thick.
- 4
Pour into buttered molds and steam for 20-30 minutes until firm.
💡 Chef's Tip
Use high-quality date molasses like Zilani or Akza. Always check for lumps to ensure a perfect texture. The batter can be prepared the day before.
