As Spring Festival 2026 approaches, the aroma of freshly baked sesame cakes fills workshops in Dejiang County, Guizhou Province, where Tujia artisans preserve a centuries-old culinary tradition. Local craftspeople like Peng Yingfa are working tirelessly to meet surging demand for these handmade delicacies, which hold cultural and symbolic significance for Lunar New Year celebrations across the Chinese mainland.
Peng's workshop exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship behind the treats, using only locally sourced peanuts, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds. "Each cake carries our ancestors' wisdom," explains a third-generation baker, highlighting the 18-step process that ensures consistent texture and flavor. The cakes' circular shape symbolizes family unity, making them essential for reunion dinners.
Economic analysts note the tradition's modern relevance: Over 120 family-run bakeries now employ 800+ residents in Dejiang County, with annual sales exceeding ¥20 million. Cultural preservationists applaud the Tujia community's success in balancing commercial production with artisanal integrity, creating a model for rural revitalization.
For Asian diaspora communities planning Spring Festival observances, these cakes have become sought-after cultural touchstones. International shipping requests to Southeast Asia and North America have doubled this month, according to local logistics providers.
