Water puff pastry popular in Lijiang

The Water Puff Pastry in Lijiang’s Yongsheng county looks small, round and golden with a delicate crust. Its secret lies in “water.”

Unlike ordinary pastries made with oil-based dough, this one uses a special water-oil layering technique, giving it a texture that’s crisp outside and tender within.

The making of the Yongsheng Water Puff Pastry is magical. The dough is first kneaded with lard until smooth, then filled with sweet red bean, fragrant rose, or savory ham.

Once shaped, it’s not sent straight to the oven — instead, it takes an unusual dip in cold water!

When it is baked, the water will meet oil in a burst of heat, creating light, flaky, and melting texture.

Each bite melts gently on the tongue, carrying the quiet elegance of Yongsheng’s handmade tradition.

Source: Amazing Lijiang on Facebook