Could This Famous Green Bean Cake Be Royal?
Craving something that’s sweet, light—and a little legendary?
Turns out, your favorite humble green bean cake has a story that stretches all the way back to the Song Dynasty, when it was a summer delicacy in the emperor’s kitchen. Today, it’s still winning hearts—not just for its silky texture and cooling vibe, but for its cultural roots that run centuries deep.
Let’s uncover the royal history and modern charm of this underrated Chinese pastry.
A Dessert Once Fit for Emperors
Green bean cake (also known as mung bean cake) first appeared in imperial kitchens during the Song Dynasty. With its natural cooling properties, it was prized as a summer remedy for heat—and reserved for emperors and empresses as a royal refreshment.
What made it so special?
Made from finely milled green mung beans
Hand-steamed, ground, and shaped with precision
Soft, dense, and smooth—yet never sticky
Every bite was expected to be pure, refreshing, and delicately sweet
Why Scholars Were Obsessed with It
Beyond the palace walls, green bean cake became a favorite among scholars and poets. In the sweltering summer months, they paired it with tea, read poetry, and appreciated the dessert not just for taste—but for what it represented: refinement, coolness, and elegance.
Its jade-green color symbolized purity
The delicate flower-like patterns showed craft and culture
The taste: sweet but not cloying, light but lasting
From Ancient Symbol to Modern Treat
Green bean cake isn’t just a nostalgic snack. It’s a cultural symbol—of restraint, wellness, and beauty in simplicity. Its legacy has been passed down across generations, and today, it’s being rediscovered by young people craving meaningful desserts that don’t just taste good—but feel good.
Modern versions, like XuanMa’s, blend traditional techniques with playful flavors, eco-friendly packaging, and short-shelf freshness.
Try XuanMa’s Green Bean Cake Today!
Made with real mung beans, zero preservatives, and wrapped in elegant, minimalist boxes—XuanMa’s green bean cakes are the perfect gift (even if it’s just for yourself).
Cooling. Plant-based. Packed with culture.
Order now and enjoy a snack that once belonged to emperors—and now belongs in your dorm snack drawer.
Want more XuanMa moments, pastry ideas, and festive vibes？Follow us on YouTube:XuanMa Official Channel