Craving the Osmanthus Cake from ‘Pursuit of Jade’? Here’s a quick recipe

Fans of Pursuit of Jade have found themselves obsessing over more than just the chemistry between Xie Zheng and Fan Chang-yu. One of the drama’s most emotional symbols has unexpectedly become a viral food trend: osmanthus cake. Those hoping to recreate the delicate floral dessert can try this easy osmanthus cake recipe inspired by the hit C-drama.

Pursuit of Jade, directed by Zeng Qing-jie and written by Zou Yue, premiered in March 2026. The Chinese drama stars Zhang Ling-he as Xie Zheng and Tian Xi-wei as Fan Chang-yu. The series blends romance, mystery, and war elements while following the couple’s journey from a marriage of convenience to becoming partners on the battlefield.

The historical romance drama follows the butcher’s daughter Fan Chang-yu and fallen noble Xie Zheng as their fake marriage slowly turns into a sweeping love story set against war, revenge, and political intrigue. Throughout the series, food often becomes tied to memory and comfort, but the delicate osmanthus cake carries particular emotional weight for Xie Zheng.

The floral dessert has since sparked curiosity among viewers across TikTok, YouTube, and food blogs, with many fans trying to recreate the fragrant treat at home. Traditionally associated with Chinese desserts and teas, osmanthus has a lightly floral aroma often compared to elderflower. It is commonly used in syrups, pastries, jelly desserts, and sweet soups.

While the version shown in Pursuit of Jade appears closer to a traditional steamed Chinese-style cake, home bakers have also been experimenting with softer baked versions using osmanthus syrup. Here is an easy recipe you can try at home.

Easy Osmanthus Cake recipe inspired by Pursuit of Jade

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup neutral oil or coconut oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup osmanthus syrup
• 1 1/3 cups almond flour
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the glaze (optional):

• 2 cups icing sugar
• 4 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp osmanthus syrup

Method

• Preheat the oven to 200°C and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
• Beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
• Add the oil and mix well.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until the batter becomes smooth and golden.
• Stir in the osmanthus syrup.
• In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, self-rising flour, and salt.
• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes.
• Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C, loosely cover the cake with foil, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until cooked through.
• Let the cake cool before removing it from the pan.
  For the glaze, whisk together icing sugar, milk, and osmanthus syrup until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

The final cake has a rich golden crust, a soft texture and a delicate floral fragrance. It pairs especially well with tea, making it perfect for fans wanting to recreate the cosy atmosphere of Pursuit of Jade at home.

(Hero and featured image credit: IQIYI/Unsplash)