Dachang Xuezao Sugared Rice Puffs 大昌雪枣

Dachang Xuezao Sugared Rice Puffs (大昌雪枣) are a traditional confection from Dachang (大昌) in Wushan County (巫山县). Glutinous rice, soybeans, taro, maltose and honey are among the ingredients used by Hongchangda (洪昌达), the local maker visited by Chongqing Daily (重庆日报). The name means 'snow dates', referring to the date-like form and white powder coating.

Flavour and texture

The pale coating clings lightly to the fingers. Breaking a puff exposes small honeycomb-like holes inside. Its delicate, crisp texture and light sweetness dissolve readily in the mouth. The confection is also described as having an eight-sided shape and a fine, threadlike interior.

Where it comes from

Hongchangda's maker Huang Shixiong (黄世雄) began learning the craft at fourteen. In Chongqing Daily's 2021 visit, he described nearly twenty stages of production. His great-grandfather Shen Jiewen (沈介文) founded the family brand, and his maternal grandfather Shen Maoyi (沈茂轶) also practised the craft, having studied confectionery with twelve teachers.