Ma Lai Go

Ma Lai Go is a light, fluffy steamed sponge cake originating from Cantonese cuisine in Guangdong, China. It is typically made from a simple batter of wheat flour, eggs, sugar, and milk, often leavened with baking powder or a small amount of yeast for a soft, airy texture. The cake is traditionally steamed rather than baked, giving it a moist, tender crumb.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Ma Lai Go is primarily a source of carbohydrates from flour and sugar, with moderate fat and protein from eggs and milk. A typical serving provides around 250-300 calories, along with some calcium and B vitamins from the dairy and egg components.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	260 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	8 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	18 g
Sodium	180 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Phosphorus	100 mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.1 mg
Vitamin B12	0.3 mcg

Per 1 piece (100 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Ma Lai Go is a beloved dim sum item, often served in small portions during yum cha (morning tea). Its steamed preparation makes it a lighter alternative to Western baked cakes, and its spongy texture is designed to absorb sweet syrups or be enjoyed plain.